The Student Accommodation Council has welcomed the Australian Government’s decision to link international student enrolment increases to the delivery of new student housing.
For 2026, public universities will be able to apply to increase their individual higher education allocations for 2026 by demonstrating delivery on two government priorities:
- increased engagement with Southeast Asia, consistent with Invested: Australia’s Southeast Asia Economic Strategy to 2040; and
- provision of student accommodation to ensure both domestic and international students have access to safe and secure housing.
Torie Brown, Executive Director of the Student Accommodation Council, called the move “sensible and strategic,” emphasising that every student living in dedicated housing is one less in competition for space in the private rental market.
“This aligns with our long-standing call for closer collaboration between universities and the student accommodation sector,” Brown said. “We have the capacity, expertise and proven track record.”
Student Accommodation Council President and Scape CEO Anouk Darling also voiced support, highlighting the sector’s readiness to meet growing demand and relieve pressure on Australia’s overstretched rental market.
The announcement underscores the vital role purpose-built, professionally managed student housing plays in the broader ecosystem of international education. It also opens the door for greater public-private cooperation as the country faces ongoing housing shortages.
“This policy shift is a step in the right direction,” Brown added, “and we look forward to working with all levels of government to make student housing part of the solution.”
