CA ANZ: Proposed 80,000 International Student Visa Cut Could Worsen Talent Shortage
Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand (CA ANZ) has issued a stark warning about the Coalition's proposed plan to drastically reduce international student numbers, highlighting potential negative impacts across business, economic, and educational sectors. The proposal aims to cut international student visas by 80,000, increase visa application fees by up to $5,000, and introduce a new $2,500 charge for students changing education providers. While CA ANZ acknowledges the need for sustainability and integrity in Australia's international education system, the organization cautions that such restrictive measures could damage Australia's global reputation and worsen existing skill shortages.
The Key Details:
Coalition plans to cut international student visas by 80,000 if elected
Student visa application fees would increase by up to $5,000
A new $2,500 charge would be imposed on students changing education providers
CA ANZ warns the policy could exacerbate Australia's accountant shortage
Why It Matters
The proposed changes to international student policies could have far-reaching consequences beyond the education sector, potentially undermining Australia's competitive position in the global talent market. With accounting professionals already in short supply, these restrictions may further strain businesses seeking qualified graduates and hamper economic growth. As migration policy increasingly becomes a focal point in Australia's political landscape, striking the right balance between system integrity and maintaining critical skill pipelines will be essential for the country's long-term prosperity.
"The international education sector plays an important role in developing global accounting talent, but caps like this risk damaging Australia's global reputation," said Sarah Davidson, CA ANZ Education, Skills and Migration Policy Leader.
"We made these same points to Labor last year as part of consultations on the Draft International Education and Skills Strategic Framework which proposed caps on international student enrolments," Davidson explained.
"Any reform to the migration system should focus on skills and qualifications, not quantity – we don't want to deter high-quality international students," Davidson emphasized.
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