Launched by minister for economic growth and jobs Steve Dimopoulos, the Study with Victoria strategy sets out a long-term plan to improve the international student experience and graduate outcomes, expand global education partnerships and reinforce Victoria’s reputation for education excellence.
According to the Victorian government, 322,000 international students from around 170 countries chose to study in Victoria in 2025, helping generate AUD $17.9 billion in export revenue and supporting around 69,000 jobs.
The strategy places students at its centre, with a focus on improving wellbeing, inclusion and employability through initiatives including the Study Melbourne Hub and Study Melbourne Inclusion Program.
“Victoria’s international education sector is second to none. We welcome international students with open arms and support them to thrive while they study in Victoria,” said Dimopoulos.
We welcome international students with open arms and support them to thrive while they study in Victoria
Steve Dimopoulos, Victoria’s minister for economic growth and job
“International students enrich our campuses and culture, and become integral members of our community. They drive economic growth, innovation, trade and investment and become friends in business here and overseas,” he added.
The government also plans to strengthen Victoria’s international education footprint by growing partnerships with key overseas markets, supporting offshore and Transnational Education (TNE), and creating new opportunities for collaboration across the Asia Pacific region.
“Victoria will remain a global education partner of choice and Labor makes sure all students benefit from a world-class education,” said the minister.
Elsewhere, the strategy aims to bolster Victoria’s global reputation for education, training and research by supporting industry collaboration, innovation and strong graduate outcomes, ensuring the state’s education sector remains globally competitive.
The announcement comes after Melbourne was named Australia’s top student city and fifth globally in the QS Best Student Cities 2026 rankings.
