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Chief Executive Catriona Jackson said: “It is good to see the Minister acknowledge the contribution of international education to the broader economy with 60 per cent of international student revenues boosting the nation’s bottom line, supporting 250,000 jobs across the country.”

Minister Tudge also highlighted the emergence of more diverse delivery models for education as an opportunity for Australian universities.

Ms Jackson said: “The pandemic has accelerated innovation in education delivery models, with a combination of face-to-face and digital delivery gaining ground. These rich hybrid models present Australian and international students with new opportunities. They also present a competitive edge for our sector.”

The Minister also highlighted the importance of diverse classrooms for Australian and international students alike.

“Australian universities welcome students from more than 140 nations around the globe. COVID-19 has presented significant challenges, and we are pleased to work with Government on the best ways to rise to those challenges,” Ms Jackson said.

“We, like the Minister, look forward to the time when we can safely welcome students back to our shores.”

“Universities have been working closely with state and territory governments over many months to plan for the safe return of international students – work which the Minister acknowledged in his remarks. We would welcome a national plan – drawing together efforts from all levels of government, and the sector – on this important matter.”

“Long term vision is important, and we look forward to discussing the 10-year international education strategy.”

“The consultation process for the new strategy will identify how best the sector can go forward in the post-pandemic era.”

“International education is Australia’s fourth largest export earner, worth about $40 billion a year.”

“Australia has successfully leveraged its many advantages in a highly competitive marketplace to the point where we are third only behind the US and UK in terms of international students choosing to study here,” Ms Jackson added.