Megan Breen

The tightening of Australian student visa regulations and increased scrutiny have led to significant impacts on both providers and students, with some experts lamenting the erosion of transparency and fairness in visa decisions.

Key figures have stressed the need for cohesive action to drive policy development and safeguard Australia's $40 billion education industry.

Amid an ongoing parliamentary debate on migration, the housing crisis and capping international student numbers, a leading business group in Australia has warned the sector to brace for significant revenue losses in 2025.

The future of Australia's education providers and international students is under threat from a short term "stopgap", which will lead to job losses and damage Australia's reputation, say some stakeholders.

Regional employers in Australia should attract international students to fill positions amid a chronic skills shortage, including offering graduate programs, assistance with settlement and support for families, stakeholders have said.

The latest release of immigration risk ratings for international education providers in Australia has raised questions about the best approach to ensure the sustainability of the sector.

International student numbers in Australia will continue to plummet as the new migration strategy is implemented in an attempt to curb migration levels amid a housing shortage, stakeholders fear.