Confirmation today that MD107, described by Minister Clare as a “de facto cap”, will remain in place means universities and the economy will continue to  experience serious financial harm at a time Australia can’t afford such a measure.

“Australia’s universities are again being used as a political football in the migration debate,” Universities Australia Chief Executive Officer Luke Sheehy said.

“It beggars belief that one of our country’s biggest export industries is being treated this badly.

“MD107 has already stripped an estimated $4 billion from the economy and our universities and is putting thousands of jobs at risk right across the economy.

“Some universities, particularly those in outer suburban and regional areas where MD107 is being felt most, are on their knees due to the financial impact of this destructive instrument.

“We can’t have a bright and vibrant higher education sector that delivers for all Australians without the revenue international education brings to our universities.

“This appears to be lost on both sides of politics as they continue to treat international students as cannon fodder in the political battle over migration and housing.”