“Universities have called for growth in this critically important sector, and the Government has honoured this,” Universities Australia Chief Executive Officer Luke Sheehy said. 

“This is a sensible approach and will provide the stability and certainty universities desperately need. 

“International students contribute $52 billion to Australia’s economy and are a vital part of our communities, filling skills gaps in our cities and regions and strengthening our cultural fabric. 

“They also directly support universities, covering domestic funding gaps and ensuring our sector can continue to deliver the pipeline of skilled workers and undertake the R&D our country needs. 

“We welcome the opportunity for universities to grow their international student intake by aligning with key national priorities, including deeper engagement with Southeast Asia and the provision of safe, secure student accommodation that benefits both domestic and international students. 

“We’ll continue to work constructively with the Government to strengthen the integrity of the sector, including the design of a new ministerial direction, to ensure our prized international education sector continues to deliver in the national interest.”