“China’s decision will encourage students to return to Australia which is a good thing.

“Happening so close to the new academic year, there are obvious logistical issues that need to be worked through to ensure the smooth return of around 40,000 Chinese students who remain outside of Australia.

“We will be working closely with government and industry to ensure universities can quickly respond to this influx and facilitate the safe return of students from China as well as students from other nations.

“Education is our largest services export and generated more than $40 billion in 2019 while boosting Australia’s social fabric. Working back to this position of strength we held prior to the pandemic is in the interest of universities and our nation.”