Queensland’s international education sector posted decade-high growth over 2018-19 to inject $5.38 billion into the state, new data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) shows.
The value of international education and training rose 16 per cent – a post-GFC benchmark for Queensland – in the 12 months to July 1.
The period eclipsed the eight percent average yearly increase over the last decade.
The ABS data showed Queensland outperformed the sector’s national trend (15 per cent) as well as New South Wales – Australia’s largest international education market – which recorded 14 per cent growth.
Ministerial Champion for International Education and Training Kate Jones said the sector’s growth was being supported by a strategy that was engaging the entire state with emerging markets.
“We’re growing the international education sector to create jobs throughout Queensland,” she said.
“Our strategy to expand this sector along with global demand for high quality education means student numbers will continue to grow in the future.
“Queensland is unique – one in three international students are enrolled outside Brisbane which is great for communities right throughout our regions. From Cairns to Coolangatta, international students are real money-spinners for regional economies.
“Schools, colleges and universities aren’t the only organisations to benefit. When students come to study in Queensland, the flow-on benefits are great.
“From groceries to clothes to entertainment – when our international education sector is booming, every sector of our economy benefits.”
Ms Jones said a cornerstone of the Palaszczuk Government’s international education and training strategy was engaging more emerging economies, minimising the state’s reliance on any single country.
Data from the Department of Education showed China and India – like other states – represented Queensland’s largest international student cohort.
There was significant growth in Indian visitation to October, according to the Federal Department of Education, with enrolments increasing by 4038 to 16,910 students (31 per cent) from the previous year.
However, amongst Queensland top 10 international cohorts, there was also significant year-on-year growth from emerging markets including:
- Colombia (19 per cent growth in enrolments to 6835)
- Philippines (104 per cent growth to 3826)
“Queensland’s appeal is far-reaching on the international stage,” said Ms Jones.
“India has huge potential for growth as a trade partner and a source market for international students. We’re aggressively marketing Queensland throughout Asia and the sub-continent to make sure our state is best placed to capitalise on the demand for education.”
