October 18, 2016
The Go8 welcomes the Government’s announcement of “Council for International Education” membership.
“The membership represents a broad range of experience across the many facets of our $19 billion international industry and that is essential,” says Go8 Chief Executive Vicki Thomson.
“It is critical to it being able to ‘hit the ground running’ and so make up for lost time in supporting all aspects of this important sector, from students undertaking a first engagement with English language through to our nation’s globally respected high quality PhD students who help support Australia’s vital research effort,” she said.
Delays in appointing the Council mean there is no time to lose in addressing the key issues impacting the sector. “We need to ensure that the $12 million allocated is used to best effect in the context of increased global competition for the world’s best students,” said Ms Thomson. “Currently Australia’s success in the international student market is viewed with envy and the sector is determined this should continue.”
The Go8 also welcomes the oversight that will be provided by Minister Birmingham, and the recognition of the need for input across a broad range of portfolios.
“International students are more than students”, said Ms Thomson. “Their presence contributes to the rich environment on campus, to the communities in which they live, and helps to broaden the perspectives of our domestic students. And they return home as cultural ambassadors for Australian values and our way of life. They are Australia’s brand health ambassadors.”
The Go8 looks forward to working with the Council to ensure effective and timely results to support what is Australia’s largest non-resource sector.
Contact: Vicki Thomson, Group of Eight Chief Executive on +61 438 047 155
