This is up almost seven per cent on the $10.4 billion recorded in March 2019 – when international education generated a record $41 billion in the year and supported 250,000 jobs.

“Exports underpin Australia’s economy, and education is the biggest one we don’t dig out of the ground,” Universities Australia Chief Executive Catriona Jackson said.

“It’s an essential part of our economic mix, making our economy stronger and helping pay for the essential services all Australians need and enjoy.

“The March result is a new high-water mark – eclipsing the previous biggest quarterly result recorded in 2019 when education peaked as an export.

“This gives us confidence we will soon regain the position of strength we held prior to the pandemic.

“We’re encouraged by students returning to our shores in greater numbers than before, which is testament to the world-class education they receive here and our enviable lifestyle.

“International students are a fundamental part of our great multicultural nation.

“Those who return home take with them a world-class Australian education that makes them a global citizen, ready to tackle the great global challenges we all face.”

International students studying in Australia contributed $10.85 billion to the economy, while those located offshore added $252 million.