International Students

In reply to the Hon. T.A. FRANKS (2 July 2020).

The Hon. D.W. RIDGWAY (Minister for Trade and Investment): I have been advised the following:

There are currently 1,642 students from Hong Kong enrolled in South Australian educational institutions across all sectors of which 277 are currently outside Australia and potentially attempting to return.

The Department for Trade and Investment has been leading work with SA Health, SA Police and a range of stakeholders to develop a pilot program for the safe and responsible return of international students from many markets including Hong Kong.

Any pilot program will follow the guidelines set down by the Australian government, SA Health and SA Police to ensure the health, safety and wellbeing of the arriving students and the South Australian community.

Such a pilot program would be dependent on our federal colleagues for border and visa access and controls and a commitment from our education institutions to ensure they and their students will strictly adhere to the conditions of the pilot.