Skills and Workforce Participation Minister Jacinta Allan today welcomed Victoria’s latest intake of overseas students as 2009 International Education Week celebrations kicked off across the state.
“Victoria’s world class education and training system continues to lead the nation in attracting international students. Last year, 30 per cent of all overseas students coming to Australia chose to study in Victoria, contributing $4.45 billion to the state’s economy,” Ms Allan said.
Representing Ms Allan at a function at Bendigo held as part of International Education Week (1-7 March 2009), Member for the Victorian Northern Region, Candy Broad said Victoria continued to be a leading study destination of choice for students from all over the world.
“In 2008, more than 160,000 overseas students from 163 countries came to study at Victorian schools, universities and TAFE Institutes, as well as English language and VET courses – an increase of nearly 30,000 overseas students in 2008 alone,” Ms Broad said.
“The continuing growth in overseas student numbers represent a massive vote of confidence for the quality of Victoria education institutions and their programs, as well as for Victoria and as a safe and welcoming place in which to live and study.”
Ms Allan said that the economic benefits of international education were matched by the positive social and educational impact of Victoria hosting overseas students.
“Local students in our schools and universities get a fantastic opportunity to learn from international students, who in turn have a rich learning experience studying, working and living in Melbourne and regional Victoria,” Ms Allan said.
“Many students who return to their country of origin maintain strong links with Victoria and Australia, opening up opportunities in business, innovation and cultural exchange.”
Last year, the Brumby Government established the Overseas Student Experience Taskforce, which looked at the issues affecting overseas students and made a number of recommendations to enhance the academic and social experience of overseas students in Victoria.
As a result, International Education Week 2009 features a number of new information seminars on topics including accommodation, employment, safety, community engagement, and the availability of information.
“The Victorian Government is committed to ensuring Victoria continues to be the premier destination for overseas students studying and living in Australia,” Ms Allan said.