Australia’s first-ever International Education Minister, Senator Richard Colbeck, today announced the recipients of the coveted grants for 2016.

2,870 students from universities and VET institutions will share in $8.3 million in funding to support them studying overseas next year.

Universities Australia Chief Executive Belinda Robinson said these students will embark on an experience of a lifetime.

“Not only will these students create lifelong memories, they will also forge deep personal connections to other nations that are important to Australia’s future,” Ms Robinson said.

“As more of our students add an international study experience to their academic transcript, the stronger Australia’s connections to our region and our world will be.”

Ms Robinson took the opportunity to warmly welcome Senator Colbeck to the international education sector.

“This inaugural Ministry is an explicit acknowledgment by the Government of the importance of the international education sector to Australian society, our economy and our engagement with the world,” Ms Robinson said.

“International education supports over 130,000 jobs and contributes $18 billion in export revenue annually. It is Australia’s third largest export and largest services sector export.

“It also builds cultural diversity domestically and forges strong and lasting links internationally.”

Ms Robinson said that Senator Colbeck’s appointment, in tandem with the ongoing work of the Coordinating Council in developing a National International Education Strategy, sent a strong signal about the Government’s commitment to ensuring a strong, sustainable international education sector.

“We look forward to working with Senator Colbeck as we finalise national plans for the future of Australian international education,” Ms Robinson said.

Read more about Endeavour Mobility Grants at: http://internationaleducation.gov.au/endeavourmobility