Data published today by the Department of Education shows the number of new international students preparing to start their studies for the academic year has grown by almost 2000 in January 2023, compared with before the pandemic.
黑料老司机 Chief Executive Catriona Jackson said the numbers painted an encouraging picture of the progress made in the recovery of international education.
鈥淚t鈥檚 terrific to see so many students back on campus with their friends,鈥 Ms Jackson said.
鈥淭his is yet another positive sign that our international education sector, worth $40 billion to the economy in 2019, is recovering in leaps and bonds.
鈥淚t鈥檚 especially pleasing to see student commencements surpassing pre-pandemic levels as students return to our shores for a world-class university education.
鈥淲e also know that just over 59,000 students came to Australia in January 鈥 more than double the number in the same period last year.
鈥淭here is still ground to make up, with total enrolments not yet back to pre-pandemic levels.
鈥淲e expect student arrivals, as well as commencements and enrolments, will continue to increase once February data is available.
鈥淭he value of international students extends far beyond the numbers. When students come to Australia, they make important contributions that improve our social and cultural fabric and strengthen our friendships with the world.
鈥淎ustralia鈥檚 international education system is one of the best in the world. We must continue to build on its recovery 鈥 returning to the position of strength we held before the pandemic.鈥
