“The latest government data confirms international students are steadily returning to Australia’s world-class universities, which is good news,” Universities Australia Chief Executive Catriona Jackson said.

“We can be proud of this progress, but we have work to do to return to the position of strength we held before the pandemic.

“We also know that return patterns are not even across the sector, with some universities finding returns slower.

“International students make an enormous social, cultural and economic contribution to our nation.

“Prior to the pandemic education generated almost $41 billion as our third biggest export earner.

“International students also strengthen the communities they join in Australia, enhancing our social fabric and adding new skills and knowledge to our economy.

“We look forward to contributing to the government’s migration review to shape the way we attract and retain the best people to contribute to Australia’s economic, social and cultural prosperity.”