The importance of international education for Australia

International education  provides significant economic benefits for Australia. It is both a major export  industry and a source of  domestic economic growth. Around one quarter of all higher education students  in Australia are international  students. International student fees more than cover costs of study and account  for some 16% of total higher education revenue.

Education related  tourism (family and friends who visit international students) is just one of  the many indirect benefits of  international education to the Australian economy.

However, international  education is much more than a business.

The relationships formed through international education underpin Australia's engagement with the  world, and help sustain  goodwill, trade and investment. They are the basis of future research  collaboration. They open doors for Australia  and make Australia's creative and intellectual assets more visible to other countries. They improve our reputation internationally as a centre for learning, research and innovation.

Trade in education  contributes to revenue growth for education providers, thereby strengthening  the financial viability of  institutions and increasing opportunities for participation in education, research  and employment. Offshore campuses,  twinning arrangements and international research collaboration help to build  education capacity in other  countries.

Education as part  of Australia's aid program assists developing countries in improving  governance, building stable and  effective civic institutions, reducing poverty and achieving sustainable development.

International education  also grows Australia's knowledge capability.

International students  provide diverse social and cultural perspectives that enrich the educational  experience for all students.  Through interaction with international students, Australian students learn about other cultures and languages' critical knowledge in today's globalised business world.

International students  contribute intellectually to Australian society. They bring talent to Australia  and help to widen the outlook  of Australians. They also increase Australia's understanding of the languages,  cultures and economies of our trading partners.

International graduates are attractive employees for Australian companies because they have the language skills and networks  to do business in their own countries and they understand the Australian  culture. Through international education, personal and institutional ties are formed. Doing business is easier with people who are already familiar with Australia.

When formal  diplomatic relations are strained, these ties ensure ongoing dialogue with  Australia. Australia cannot  afford to be isolated or by-passed in a more knowledge-connected world. Our future will rely on strong international connections and openness.

Click here to view or download - Go8 international education statement