The Morrison Government is cutting red tape to create new market opportunities for Australian education providers.
The plan will allow international students in Australia to study short courses outside their primary course of study by amending the Education Services for Overseas Students Act 2000 (ESOS Act).
Minister for Education Dan Tehan said the reform would allow more Australian businesses to enter the growing and popular field of microcredential delivery.
“International students could choose to study a microcredential that complemented their primary field of study, reflected their personal interests or improved their employability while in Australia, such as first aid, responsible service of alcohol or barista courses,” Mr Tehan said.
“This will create new opportunities for Australian education providers to expand their business delivery to international students.
“Microcredentials are an opportunity for education providers to enter a global market in an emerging form of education, opening new markets and potential business opportunities.
“Our Government wants short courses to be a permanent fixture of the Australian education system. “The Government will consult with the education sector on amendments to the ESOS Act.”
International students will not be able to apply for student visas based solely on these courses.
The Department of Education, Skills and Employment will consult further with the education sector from 25 September 2020 on these proposed changes.
