- July 21, 2020
- Posted by: Umesh Dhungel
- Category: News & Updates
A raft of measures has been announced by the federal government to ensure Australia remains an attractive destination for international students.
The federal government has resumed the processing of student visa applications lodged in locations outside Australia in an attempt to boost the number of international students once borders reopen.
It is part of five measures announced on Monday aimed at keeping international students in Australia amid concerns some won’t return after the coronavirus pandemic subsides.
Current international students unable to complete their studies within their original visa due to COVID-19 will also be able to lodge a further visa application for free, and additional time will be given to applicants who need to provide English language results.
“These measures back the international education sector – our fourth-largest export sector – and will assist its recovery,” acting immigration minister Alan Tudge said.
“[They] will not only support the education sector, but it will also have flow-on effects for many local communities and businesses, including accommodation services, tourism, hospitality, and retail.”
International students contribute an estimated $40 billion annually to the Australian economy and support around 250,000 jobs.
“As well as supporting jobs, international education builds our connection to the rest of the world and supports a number of critical industries like health, aged and disability care,” Education Minister Dan Tehan said.