Universities Australia Chief Executive Belinda Robinson said the Tokyo Convention, which came into effect yesterday, would improve the mobility of students, academics and workers across the region.

“We have fully supported the Australian Government’s efforts to have the Tokyo Convention adopted,” Ms Robinson said.

“This deal will play an increasingly significant role in capacity building and economic development in participating countries and strengthen ties between them,” she said.

The Convention, which includes China, New Zealand, Japan and South Korea as well as Australia, seeks to ensure that studies, diplomas, and degrees in higher education are recognised as widely as possible.

“This agreement considers the great diversity of educational systems in the Asia-Pacific region and embraces the richness of its cultural, social, political, religious, and economic backgrounds,” Ms Robinson said.

“Universities Australia will continue to work with the Australian Government to promote the benefits of the Tokyo Convention to our regional partners and ensure our qualifications are recognised across the region.”