has achieved a significant milestone in its global student community, exceeding 700,000 for the first time ever. This increase has led to a peak in temporary arrivals, totaling 2.8 million individuals.
As per the data unveiled by the department of home affairs, Australia housed 713,144 international students by February 29. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese recognized the repercussions of border closures during the pandemic, resulting in an unusually high influx of students and temporary residents.
Albanese stressed the importance of regulating population levels and delineated strategies to reduce numbers through a migration plan. This viewpoint was seconded by Rizvi, who pointed out disparities between anticipated and actual population statistics, underscoring the need for adaptations.
In light of the burgeoning student community, the Albanese administration has kickstarted actions as outlined in the migration review. This includes easing English language prerequisites for student visas and implementing an authentic student assessment to discourage insincere applicants.
(Join our for all the latest updates)
Despite the record-breaking count of international students, government statistics also indicate a surge in visa denials, with over 50,000 applications turned down in the preceding three months leading to February. This coincides with a drop in visa approval rates and a reduction in visa submissions for the first instance in over two years.
RECOMMENDEDSTORIES FOR YOU
Nevertheless, experts advise against swift measures to decrease student figures, highlighting potential adverse effects on the education sector and the broader economy. International education stands as a substantial export domain for Australia, valued at around $50 billion in 2023. The shift in preferences among potential international students is noticeable, with a survey revealing a shift away from prominent destinations like Canada, the UK, and Australia towards smaller nations such as New Zealand, Germany, and the US. This transition follows the implementation of more stringent policies in these major destinations to regulate the growth of international students.