The latest data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics confirms a further 42,830 students arrived in April, 21,700 more than in the same month last year. Provisional estimates indicate a further 44,260 students arrived in May.

Education-related travel was Australia’s largest services export in 2022, increasing by more than $4.6 billion from the year prior, according to separate ABS data.

“International education continues to be one of Australia’s greatest success stories,” Universities Australia Chief Executive Catriona Jackson said.

“It’s terrific to see growth in the number of students, their friends and their families coming to our shores to experience all that Australia has to offer.

“We’re working back to the position of strength we held pre-pandemic, which is positive news for universities and for the nation which benefits from the knowledge and perspectives international students bring when they choose a world-class Australian education.

“International students also make a significant economic contribution, supporting more than 250,000 jobs before the COVID-19 pandemic and adding more than $40.1 billion to the economy.”