International Education

The Hon. D.G.E. HOOD (14:45): My question is to the Minister for Trade and Investment. Can the minister share news on the latest international education statistics and how the government is working with industry to respond to challenges due to the coronavirus?

The Hon. D.W. RIDGWAY (Minister for Trade and Investment) (14:45): I thank the honourable member for his question. The Marshall Liberal government recognises the significant contribution that international education gives to South Australia, and the latest ABS figures justify the increased investment we have made in the sector. That investment includes increasing the annual funding to StudyAdelaide to $2.5 million, bringing the industry together to develop an International Education 2030 plan as well as working closely with the Morrison Liberal government to introduce favourable post-study work rights visas.

In the newly released data for the year ending 2019, South Australia's international student enrolments had reached a record high of 44,119. This is 6,088 more enrolments than in 2018, a growth rate of some 16 per cent, which is well above the national average of 10 per cent. This is a fantastic result and I acknowledge all the hard work of StudyAdelaide, our universities, schools and colleges.

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 per cent of our enrolments—down, incidentally, from 42 per cent the year before—the next nine source markets include India, Vietnam, Nepal, Hong Kong, Malaysia, South Korea, the Philippines, Brazil and Kenya, accounting for 46 per cent.

The 2019 figures are incredibly positive and validate the findings of the strategy of the International Education 2030 plan. Looking forward, we are all very concerned about the impact coronavirus will have on our present, future and potential international students from mainland China. The government is working closely with our federal colleagues, with StudyAdelaide, Chinese student groups, accommodation providers and education partners in ensuring the most up-to-date information, advice and support is given to the students, parents, schools and education institutions.

We want to make sure that our Chinese international students are supported and my message to them is that 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 bring, international students made a valuable contribution to our society, globalising our communities, diversifying our workforce and enriching our culture.

While we embrace the positive growth of this sector, the Marshall Liberal government will not be complacent in this 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.