The Australian Universities Accord Final report has been released and can be seen here. The Koala recommends a thorough read.
Section 4.3.3 is dedicated to International Education, with a number of references (273) to “International” and a further 63 to “global” throughout the document.
Without a doubt, discussion, dialogue, and analysis will follow; however, here’s what you need to know straight up. The recommendations:
International Education Recommendations
1. That to plan for a strong future for the international education system and recognise the contribution international students make to Australia, the Australian Government and the Australian Tertiary Education Commission:
a. work with tertiary education providers to ensure greater alignment and coordination between the courses and programs that are marketed to international students and the national skills agenda and relevant migration initiatives
b. work across government and tertiary education providers to support the growth of international education in regional and remote areas, encouraging providers to communicate the benefits of studying and living in regional and remote Australia
c. work with tertiary education providers to explore opportunities and review visa requirements to support diversification of international student markets within a national strategic framework, including through using innovative transnational education delivery modes. This engagement should particularly focus on medium term opportunities in South Asia, consistent with Australia’s Education Strategy for India, and Southeast Asia, consistent with the Southeast Asia Economic Strategy to 2040
d. support tertiary education providers, in partnership with relevant government agencies, to enhance Australian alumni engagement in students’ countries/regions of origin. These alumni networks should aim to foster enduring connections to Australia which strengthen Australia’s international research networks and partnerships.
2. That to address issues with the integrity and quality of teaching and facilities in international tertiary education and ensure that international education providers maintain their social licence to operate, the Australian Government and the Australian Tertiary Education Commission:
a. work across government and with tertiary education providers to ensure trust and integrity within the Australian visa system is maintained, in line with agreed recommendations from the Nixon Review and the Migration Strategy to protect international students from recruitment agents and providers that do not meet the high national standards expected by the industry
b. through TEQSA’s existing or expanded regulatory functions and negotiation of mission-based-compacts, ensure that providers have appropriate risk management strategies for international education consistent with the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act, other legislative obligations and the higher education standards, taking an evidence-based approach to issues including:
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- managing demand volatility
- course concentrations and the quality of the student experience
- access and availability of affordable student housing.
