🛑 STOP demonising international students | Major Migration Industry Bodies called

Summary

In this video, Kawang, an online YouTube visa consultant, discusses the latest updates in Australia's immigration and visa policies, particularly concerning international students. He highlights the economic contribution of international education, stressing that students are not to blame for the housing crisis. Kawang critiques proposed increases in visa application fees and reductions in migration numbers, emphasizing their negative impact on Australia's economy. The video also touches on the geopolitical landscape, exploring how trade relations with the US and China may influence Australia's future policies. The video offers a balanced view of current challenges and solutions for supporting international students and migration.

Takeaways

• 😀 International students play a crucial role in Australia's economy, contributing significantly to the international education sector, which is the country's fourth-largest export.
• 😀 The Migration Institute of Australia (MIA) and Migration Alliance emphasize the importance of supporting international students and their contribution to the workforce.
• 😀 There is a concern that international students are wrongly blamed for Australia's housing crisis, as they typically occupy smaller, purpose-built student accommodations near universities, not mainstream housing.
• 😀 Politicians, particularly from the opposition, have proposed raising student visa application fees to $5,000, which is seen as detrimental to Australia's competitiveness in attracting international students.
• 😀 The current student visa application fee is already one of the highest globally at $1,600, and raising it further could hurt the country’s global standing.
• 😀 Peter Dutton, the opposition leader, has proposed drastic measures like raising visa application fees and reducing migrant numbers, which critics argue could harm Australia's economy.
• 😀 The working holiday makers program has been updated to allow workers to help in regions hit by natural disasters, underscoring the need for more migrant labor to support Australia’s economy.
• 😀 Australia's geopolitical situation, including its relations with the US and China, impacts its immigration policies, particularly as the global trade environment shifts.
• 😀 The opposition's stance on immigration may be driven by electoral strategies rather than an understanding of the economic needs of the country, especially in the context of migrant labor shortages.
• 😀 The ongoing political debate surrounding immigration policy could undermine the long-term stability and growth of Australia's economy, particularly in key sectors dependent on migrant labor.

Q & A

What is the role of international students in Australia's economy?

International students are a vital part of Australia's economy, contributing over $50 billion annually, making the international education sector the country's fourth-largest export.

Why are the Migration Institute of Australia (MIA) and Migration Alliance advocating for international students?

Both organizations are advocating for stronger support of international students because they are a significant economic driver. They argue that the political climate has not properly acknowledged the value of international students, especially in light of the ongoing housing and immigration debates.

What is the argument against blaming international students for the housing crisis in Australia?

The argument is that international students do not significantly contribute to the housing crisis. They typically rent small accommodation units near universities, and the real cause of the housing issue lies with government regulations and the construction industry’s inability to meet housing demand.

How could proposed visa fee increases impact the international student sector in Australia?

Proposed increases in visa fees could make Australia less competitive in the global education market, as the higher costs could deter potential international students. A student visa application fee higher than that for permanent residency could be seen as unreasonable and could undermine Australia's attractiveness as an education destination.

What did opposition leader Peter Dutton propose regarding university application fees?

Peter Dutton proposed charging $5,000 for applications from students applying to Group of Eight (G8) universities, which is seen as excessive. Such a fee could harm Australia’s international education sector by making it more expensive for students to apply.

How do international students contribute to the Australian workforce?

International students contribute to the Australian workforce by working up to 48 hours per fortnight, particularly in sectors that rely on flexible labor. This provides support to various businesses while students earn money to sustain their living expenses.

What is the potential impact of cutting the number of migrants by 100,000 annually in Australia?

Cutting the number of migrants by 100,000 annually could negatively affect Australia's economy, especially given the need for more workers in various sectors. This move could hinder growth and worsen labor shortages, especially in regional areas.

How does the geopolitical situation influence Australia’s immigration policies?

The geopolitical tensions between the United States and China are influencing Australia’s immigration policies. As China becomes a more prominent trading partner, Australia faces the challenge of balancing its economic interests with its political relationships, particularly with the US.

What was the recent update regarding the working holiday makers program in Australia?

The working holiday makers program was recently updated to allow more workers to assist in regions affected by natural disasters, such as the Sunshine Coast, which suffered from wildfires and hurricanes. This change highlights the need for more personnel in Australia to support recovery efforts.

What are the concerns surrounding the competition and viability of the international student market in Australia?

There are concerns that increasing visa fees, particularly proposals like charging $2,500 for institution changes, will make Australia’s international student market less competitive. Higher costs could drive potential students to other countries with more affordable visa policies, affecting Australia's global standing in the education sector.