Approximately 59,480 international students arrived in Australia in January – more than double the number of students who returned in the same period last year.

“International students are rushing back to Australia for the world-class education and enviable lifestyle we offer,” Universities Australia Chief Executive Catriona Jackson said.

“These students make a significant contribution to our cultural fabric and economic prosperity, adding $40.3 billion to the economy pre-Covid.

“There is still a way to go in reaching pre-Covid numbers, but we are pleased by the progress to date.

“It’s important to note that this data would not capture any increase in numbers of Chinese students following Beijing’s decision to return to its pre-Covid position of recognising only face-to-face study for students enrolled at overseas universities.

“More students coming from China – our largest source market – will be a welcome boost as we work back to the position of strength we held prior to the pandemic.”