8. Benefits of international engagement8. Benefits of international engagement

8. Benefits of international engagement

8.1 Australia gains significant benefits from its export of education and training services. The social and economic benefits flow to individuals, institutions and the wider community, both in Australia and in other countries. International engagement in education and training can transform individuals, widening their intellectual horizons, opening them to new ideas and experiences, and extending their friendships. Overseas students also contribute intellectually to Australian education and society, and provide diverse social and cultural perspectives that enrich the educational experience for many Australian students.

8.2 The benefits of international education and training depend on the service provided to overseas students, and on public confidence in the integrity and quality of that service. An industry servicing students who travel to Australia to study requires a consistent national approach to the registration of providers permitted to offer those services. A quality reputation for Australia’s international education services underpins the long-term benefits for trade and foreign relations and is imperative to domestic acceptance of growth in trade in education services. All of this can be jeopardised by education and training providers who do not deliver a quality service, or overseas students who breach the conditions of their student visa. The ongoing realisation of the benefits of international education and training requires maintenance and enhancement of Australia’s reputation as a provider of high quality education and training to overseas students.