Standing with our Chinese students in the face of COVID-19

Off the back of increased investment into StudyAdelaide; developing the industry's International Education 2030 Plan; and working closely with the Morrison Liberal government to introduce favourable post-study work rights visas, South Australia’s international student enrolments for 2019 reached a record high of 44,119.

This is 6,088 more enrolments than 2018 and a growth rate of 16% which is well above the national rate of 10%. It's a fantastic result and I acknowledge the hard work of StudyAdelaide, our universities, schools and colleges.

Interestingly, South Australia’s source markets for international students have also been diversifying. While China remains our largest cohort of international students making up nearly 35% of our enrolments (down from 42% the year before), the next nine source markets in India, Vietnam, Nepal, Hong Kong, Malaysia, South Korea, Philippines, Brazil and Kenya account for 46%.

The 2019 figures are incredibly positive and validate the findings and strategy of the International Education 2030 plan, but looking forward, we are all very concerned about the impact coronavirus will have on our present, future and potential international students from mainland China.

With flights from China to Australia limited to Australian citizens, permanent residents and their immediate families, the industry is very concerned that many Chinese international students will be unable to commence their studies at the beginning of the university year. Furthermore, China has limited tour groups from travelling abroad (including study tours) and IELTS testing has been cancelled with the English language test being a key step for many Chinese student enrolments. 

The Department of Home Affairs has shared data from February 1 indicating that 52% of Chinese citizens with a valid student visa to study in South Australia are outside of the country. This equates to approximately 6,000 students which we anticipate will face difficulties coming to Australia and commencing their studies. Nationally, 56% of current Chinese student visa holders were outside of Australia on February 1. 

What is unknown at the moment is how many of these visa holders are returning students, and how many are new, in any case all 3 South Australian public universities have set up communication lines with their Chinese student cohort to minimise the disruption to the commencement of their studies. 

Above all, we want to make sure that our Chinese international students are supported. They are a cherished part of our community and we will stand together with them during this difficult time.

The potential impact on the South Australian economy could be significant, but our government is working closely with our federal colleagues, StudyAdelaide, Chinese student groups, accommodation providers and education partners in ensuring the most up-to-date information, advice and support is provided to students, parents, schools and education institutions.

 It’s important to remember that the landscape is constantly evolving and we will continue to monitor the situation and work closely with education providers and other government bodies.

Above all, we want to make sure that our Chinese international students are supported. They are a cherished part of our community and we will stand together with them during this difficult time.

Aside from all the economic benefits and jobs they create, international students make a valuable contribution to our society, globalising our communities, diversifying our workforce and enriching our culture.

While we embrace the positive growth of the international education sector, the Marshall Liberal government will not be complacent in its success and will continue to work hard to support our international students, our overseas agent network and education institutions for the benefit of a stronger South Australia.

David Ridgway