A number of Australia’s peak education bodies have called on the Federal Government to urgently reduce the $2,000 non-refundable student visa application charge (VAC) for short-term study cohorts, warning that the world’s highest visa fee is damaging the country’s reputation and competitiveness.
“As each week goes by the sector hears of yet another English Language provider forced to close their doors. The time for polite conversation about reducing this extortionate world worst visa charge is over,” says Phil Honeywood, CEO of the International Education Association of Australia. “The Government has the means to reduce this charge and IEAA is pleased that English Australia and ITECA have joined with us to keep pressing for action sooner rather than just kicking the proverbial can down the road with more Discussion Papers.”
In a joint letter to the Prime Minister, Treasurer, Finance Minister and all 7 Ministers on the Council for International Education, the International Education Association of Australia, English Australia and The Independent Tertiary Education Council Australia who represent education providers, academics, students, and international education stakeholders urged the Government to cut the VAC by 50% for students applying to study independent English language (ELICOS) or non-award courses lasting less than 52 weeks.
The groups argue that it is inequitable to charge the same $2,000 fee for students seeking a short study experience of weeks or months as those enrolled in multi-year, award-bearing programs.
Independent English language schools have been particularly hard hit by the 181% fee rise in the past year (from $710 to $2,000). Many of these providers, which offer programs combining language learning with cultural immersion and sport, have already been forced to close.
The letter also highlights the loss of soft power and cultural exchange benefits that short-term programs bring, warning that Australia risks eroding opportunities for domestic students to participate in outbound exchanges if international partners turn elsewhere.
“These students are not part of Australia’s Net Overseas Migration,” the letter, which The Koala has seen, states, adding that high fees discourage diversity, limit global perspectives in Australian classrooms, and harm international partnerships.
While the signatories made clear their preference for a fee cut without offsetting measures, they expressed willingness to work with the Government to identify a progressive solution that avoids economic harm while restoring Australia’s competitive edge.
“Given the urgency of the situation, we request prompt resolution … The sector and our international partners are calling for action and we are seeking to partner with the Government in ensuring that is delivered without unnecessary delay,” the letter concludes.
