International Education and the Australian Economy

Greetings from day 2 of "The Evolving University" stream of EDUtech Australia 2025 at the Sydney Convention Center. George Williams, WSU, made the point international students spend money in Australia and also provide essential workers in areas such as health care. Jonathan Chew, VP International Education Association Australia said education was NSW's second largest export. He admitted students do compete for housing in inner city areas near universities. Professor Williams said that the families of international students invest their life savings in student fees (which raises ethical concerns about universities profiting from these students). Patricia Davidson, Chair NSW International Education Advisory Board argued for recognition of overseas qualifications for professionals. Professor Williams called for a "return to rationality" in political debates on education. 

It was disappointing there was no time for questions. I wanted to ask about the opportunities and risks of vocational degrees, if done well they could improve equity, or they could trash Australia's international education reputation.