The Victorian Government has launched the ‘Yes to International Students Fund’ (YISF), a new initiative aimed at strengthening international education partnerships and expanding offshore learning opportunities. This program supports public universities and TAFEs in Victoria to develop innovative transnational education (TNE) models and enhance global engagement.
Funded through Victoria’s Economic Growth Statement, YISF focuses on increasing the delivery of TNE and offshore education, enhancing international partnerships, and building the capability of Victorian tertiary providers to offer innovative education models with offshore components.
In 2025, several institutions have received funding for diverse projects, including:
- Bendigo Kangan Institute: Establishing the Automotive Centre of Excellence Cambodia (ACE-C) in Phnom Penh, including vocational teacher training and development of automotive industry-specific courses.
- Box Hill Institute: Developing and delivering a Graduate Certificate in Adult and Vocational Education across China, Vietnam, and the Philippines to enhance teacher capabilities in TNE programs.
- Chisholm Institute: Providing professional development for offshore VET educators and expanding accredited TNE programs in China with localised content and bilingual
- Deakin University: Exploring new TNE arrangements by hosting targeted partners in Australia for collaborative programs and delivering professional development for partner academic staff.
- Federation University Australia: Developing a Co-operative Education Model with existing TNE partners to provide offshore students with industry-integrated learning experiences.
These projects are set to be delivered in collaboration with overseas partners across Victoria’s international education network, including countries like China, India, Indonesia, Vietnam, and Sri Lanka.
Applications for the YISF opened in early March 2025, with funded project activities expected to be completed by 30 June 2026. This initiative underscores Victoria’s commitment to fostering global educational collaborations and enhancing the international student experience.
For more information, visit the official announcement on the Study Melbourne website here.
