English Australia, the national association for English Language Teaching (ELT) providers in Australia, has voiced significant reservations regarding the Australian government’s proposed reforms to international education. In a detailed consultation brief, the organisation has highlighted key concerns with the Draft International Education and Skills Strategic Framework and the Education Services for Overseas Students Amendment (Quality and Integrity) Bill 2024 (ESOS Amendment Bill). These reforms, slated to introduce significant changes, including an enrolment cap from January 2025, have sparked apprehension within the sector.
The association stated that the proposed measures which are aimed at advancing ‘quality and integrity, may unintentionally disrupt the sector’s current operational system. They emphasised that decisions regarding enrolment and program development typically require long-term planning and strategic foresight, suggesting that the proposed timeline may not align with current realities.
Ian Aird, CEO of English Australia, stressed the importance of comprehensive consultation
and decisions rooted in solid evidence to shape policies affecting the sector. “English Australia felt it was vital that there be a meaningful and considered conversation on these dramatic changes,” he stated. He also noted concerns over the absence of a study on the possible economic impact of the measures and insufficient engagement with industry stakeholders. These sentiments resonate across various sectors, with stakeholders cautioning against potential economic repercussions and job losses if the reforms proceed without adequate adjustment.
English Australia’s submission has outlined a new direction for the future of Australia’s international education sector, advocating for policy shifts that prioritise sustainability and transparency. The organisation’s recommendations include:
- efficient and transparent visa processing, with a streamlined approach to student visa processing that is efficient, transparent, fair and consistent
- evidence-based arguments on housing and integrity issues which urge the government to base its policies on strong evidence concerning the impact of international students on Australia’s housing and the scale of integrity issues in the education sector
- removal of enrolment cap provisions under the ESOS Amendment Bill 2024
- financial relief for high-quality providers to recognise the financial strain imposed by recent visa grant restrictions
- improved support for targeted compliance actions by regulators.
As English Australia continues to forward these recommendations, they underscore the need for collaborative dialogue between stakeholders and policymakers to achieve an approach that safeguards the integrity of Australia’s international education sector while also promoting its growth and sustainability.
English Australia’s submission has received support from various quarters within the ELT sector. Industry leaders, including Lucas Chiusoli of ILSC Education Group, have praised the submission for being well-informed and data-driven. They advocate for a balanced approach that addresses sectoral concerns while preserving the integrity of the proposed reforms.
Looking ahead, English Australia recommends a reconsideration of the timeline for implementation, proposing a delay of until at least 1 January 2026. This extension would allow for more comprehensive consultation and adjustment of the legislative framework.
As discussions progress and stakeholders continue to weigh in, the outcomes of these deliberations will shape the future of Australia’s international education sector and influence the country’s global standing in the education and economic sectors.
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