Studying in Australia

Updated on: Tuesday, September 27, 2011

A report was commissioned by the Australian government, in an attempt to make a sustainable programme which will balance Australia's economic, educational and migration interests. Former Sydney Olympics minister Michael Knight conducted the review. The Knight Review has recommended various changes in order to streamline the processing of student visas and introduce greater post study work opportunities for students following completion of a degree from an Australian university.

The international education sector has grown rapidly over the last decade. At its peak in 2009 there were 491,565 international students enrolled in courses in Australia. But a combination of factors such as increased global competition, changes to Australian migration policy and a strong Australian dollar have contributed to a dramatic decrease in the numbers of students choosing as Australia as a study destination, particularly students from India. As a result of the review, Chris Bowen MP, minister for immigration and citizenship, announced changes to the visa processing arrangements for a range of Australian university bachelors, masters and research degrees.
Bowen said the changes were for a ‘faster, easier visa access for prospective students in time for second semester next year’.

Among the 41 recommendations in the report, the introduction of a two to four year post-study work visa for foreign university graduates should prove to be particularly appealing to Indian students. The Australian government accepted all of the 41 recommendations. The recommendations in this report apply only to courses at Australian universities. Vocational training colleges (including TAFEs) will have to wait for a second review, scheduled next year.

The new rules will have an entry criterion to ensure that a successful applicant must be both a genuine temporary entrant and a legitimate student. Dr Fiona Richards, COO, Oceanic Consultants said, “These changes look to re-open the doors for genuine students to study at an Australian university, and take advantage of gaining practical experience in Australia following their studies through the work rights.”

Studying in Australia

More Education news