With the Australian Government's controversial proposed reforms to the international education sector now unlikely to pass the Senate, the Independent Tertiary Education Council Australia (ITECA) has extended an offer to work constructively with the government on developing policy reforms that ensure the sector's sustainable growth within the context of migration policy.
"While ITECA strongly opposed the Bill due to its potential to cost thousands of jobs, undermine Australia's reputation as a welcoming destination for international students, and damage the sector's international education sector's sustainability, we acknowledge the need for reform," said Troy Williams, ITECA Chief Executive.
Although ITECA opposes the Education Services for Overseas Students Amendment (Quality and Integrity) Bill 2024 that now looks unlikely to pass the Senate, it is committed to working with the Australian Government on well-considered measures that foster growth and balance the needs of the international education sector and broader migration policy.
"Although we opposed this legislation, ITECA is committed to working collaboratively with the Australian Government on future reforms that achieve sustainable outcomes for the international education sector within the context of a considered migration policy," Mr Williams said.
The Bill's likely failure in the Senate reflects concerns raised by ITECA and other stakeholders about its damaging implications, particularly the destruction of thousands of jobs in the sector. However, ITECA's focus remains on constructive engagement. The Council has written to the Prime Minister and the Education Minister offering to collaborate with the government to ensure any future legislative reforms are informed by robust consultation with the independent skills training and higher education sectors.
"The independent skills training and higher education sector is vital to Australia's global reputation in international education. To protect jobs and the sector's future, and to ensure migration policy is properly managed, it's critical that the Australian Government and our members work together on reforms that support quality outcomes and sustainable growth in the international education sector," Mr Williams said.
ITECA's willingness to engage reflects its dedication to fostering a policy environment that benefits students, supports independent tertiary education providers, and sustains Australia's international education sector as a cornerstone of economic and cultural exchange.
"These are goals that we feel the Australian Government shares and that's why we're looking forward with them collaboratively on this shared policy agenda," Mr Williams concluded.
