A new state government plan to support international students returning to Victoria was unveiled this week.
Victoria’s International Education Recovery Plan 2025 outlines the state government’s $53 million plan to help the education sector recover from pandemic border closures.
Since borders re-opened in December 2021, 37,000 students have moved to Australia.
Trade Minister Tim Pallas launched the initiative, noting the contribution international students make to Victoria.
“We’ve worked with the international education sector to develop a plan that will provide confidence, generate jobs and bolster our state’s position as a top-tier destination for students,” Minister Pallas said.
The plan will improve student experience and the quality of education provided as well as expand the government’s global education network to an additional 19 locations, including Colombia, Korea, Japan and Vietnam.
International students will also have access to a discounted travel pass which connects to Myki cards and gives a 50 percent public transport fare reduction to assist with cost of living pressure.
International education advisory council chair John Brumby commended the plan saying, “The Recovery Plan offers a bold vision to drive innovation, inclusion and sector resilience”.
“An industry-wide effort is needed to ensure the best possible experience for each and every international student, who, in turn, contribute significantly to our society,” Mr Brumby said.
