English Australia’s Annual Conference kicked off this morning at the Pullman Hotel in Brisbane.
In a pre-recorded message, Assistant Minister Julian Hill opened the conference by underscoring the critical importance of international education to Australia, with particular recognition of the role played by English language (ELICOS) providers. He described the sector as both an economic powerhouse—worth $50 billion annually, supporting more than 250,000 jobs, and underpinning Australia’s research and teaching infrastructure—and as a driver of cultural exchange, global connections, and soft power. Hill reminded the audience that behind every statistic lies the story of a young person who has chosen, and often sacrificed, to study in Australia, contributing energy, diversity, and new perspectives to local communities.
Acknowledging current challenges, Hill noted that many providers face difficulties with low enrolments, visa integrity issues, and rising costs. He stressed that government policy is focused on sustainable growth and supporting genuine students and quality providers. Importantly, he linked today’s integrity measures to past policy failures, criticising the “Morrison government’s very flawed decision to uncap student work rights [which was] turning high quality student visas into simply a lot of work visas.” He warned of a “worrying spike in overstaying” and emphasised that tough decisions are necessary to protect the sector’s long-term success, restore public confidence, and ensure international education remains one of Australia’s greatest achievements.
Well and good, however, as per numerous conversations The Koala had at the ensuing break, it is well known and documented that the uncapped work rights referred to by Hill were due to be reviewed by the then coalition government in April 2022, which became a caretaker period. The newly elected Labor Government did not make changes to them until 1 July, 2023.
The initiative itself was a good one, which addressed COVID-19 skills deficits, but was allowed to stay open too long post-COVID. Similarly, the 408 COVID-19 event visa was kept open long after other COVID-19 support initiatives closed. It was only closed two years later.
Marnie Watson, Vice President (Global) at Griffith University, then took to the stage to deliver the conference opening Keynote. The topic? Leading with empathy, acting with intention. The Koala has long admired Watson’s work, and this keynote was exceptional, blending the current environment with a personal framework for leading and numerous personal anecdotes. It demonstrated that leading with empathy does not need to be seen as soft, but is right, and more often than not leads to much better outcomes.
She acknowledged Hill’s presentation and was refreshingly open about her feelings of being uncomfortable in the current situation in Australia’s international education sector. How the current government regulatory environment is profoundly impacting her and her role. She stated she is worried about potential people changes she may need to make if the current situation continues.
She asked the crowd to put their hands up if these feelings resonated.
By the show of hands, it appears unanimous. Folks are worried, en masse.
What impressed the Koala was her developed over the years framework for leading – using a HEART acronym. It is as follows:
H – Honesty, tell the truth
E – Early engagement, include people in decisions, not just announcements
A – Accountability, take responsibility for the process, not just the outcome
R – Respect – Honouring contributions and having dignity in how you communicate
T – Time – giving people space, time
She blended this with a personal story of every aspect / element. The Koala, as I am sure the crowd listening appreciated her vulnerability and first-class insights into challenging situations.
Well done.
The English Australia Conference continues over the next two days. The Koala extends its best wishes to the English Australia board, secretariat members, speakers, and attendees for what is set to be an exciting two days.
