In recent times, the Australian government has been proactive in streamlining immigration processes and fortifying the nation’s reputation as a global education hub. Their efforts have been commendable in maintaining the quality and integrity of the international education sector, which happens to be Australia’s fourth-largest export industry. This commitment to excellence and transparency has been further underscored by recent developments that tackle the exploitation of temporary visa holders and the misuse of education provisions.
One prominent example of the Australian government’s dedication to upholding integrity is its resolute stance against worker exploitation by protecting vulnerable workers, particularly temporary visa holders, from being exploited by unscrupulous employers. The statistics presented in this release are eye-opening: one in six recent migrants to Australia is paid less than the minimum wage. Such exploitation not only harms individual workers but also exerts downward pressure on wages and working conditions for all Australians.
The government has acknowledged that this issue has been exacerbated by a decade of neglect, during which key recommendations in the Migrant Workers Taskforce Report were left unimplemented. After eight months of consultations, the Albanese Government has unveiled a comprehensive package of measures designed to empower workers in the government has acknowledged that this issue has been exacerbated by a decade of neglect, during which key recommendations in the Migrant Workers Taskforce Report were left unimplemented. After eight months of consultations, the Albanese Government has unveiled a comprehensive package of measures designed to empower workers in exploitative workplaces. These measures include the introduction of legislation that criminalizes coercion into breaching visa conditions, the issuance of prohibition notices to prevent further hiring of exploited migrants, and the bolstering of penalties and compliance tools to deter exploitation. Additionally, the repeal of section 235 of the Migration Act, which discouraged people from reporting exploitative behavior, will be a significant step towards fostering a safer work environment. The government has also allocated $50 million in funding to resource the Australian Border Force for enhanced enforcement and compliance activities.
Recently in the international education sector, the Australian government has demonstrated a resolute commitment to maintaining the sector’s integrity. This dedication is particularly evident in their measures to close a loophole that allowed education providers to transition international students, who had been in Australia for less than six months, from genuine study to arrangements designed to facilitate access to work in Australia. The misuse of ‘concurrent enrolment’ had become an integrity issue, with a significant increase in its use in 2023 compared to previous years. Recognizing this problem, the government moved swiftly to address it.
Effective immediately, the government has closed this loophole, which will prevent predatory ‘second’ providers from enrolling students before they complete the required six months at their initial institution. This measure aims to protect the integrity of the international education system and prevent unscrupulous operators from exploiting students who come to Australia for quality education.
Another significant move involves increasing the savings required for international students to obtain a student visa. This requirement has not been adjusted since 2019, despite the rise in living expenses. Starting from October 1, 2023, international students will need to demonstrate savings of $24,505, reflecting a 17% increase from previous levels. This adjustment is essential to ensure that students coming to Australia can support themselves adequately without being compelled to seek employment immediately, which might expose them to exploitation.
Moreover, the government will implement additional scrutiny for high-risk cohorts of international students and request additional documentation to deter fraudulent applications. In a groundbreaking move, the government is also considering the use of suspension certificates under Section 97 of the Education Services for Overseas Students Act (ESOS Act) to target high-risk education providers. This would be the first time such power has been exercised by an Australian government, underlining their commitment to eliminating unscrupulous operators. The government will engage in consultations to establish clear grounds for issuing suspension certificates, focusing on providers with high visa refusal rates, particularly those exceeding 50%.
The measures taken by the Australian government to ensure the integrity of the international education sector have far-reaching implications. These actions demonstrate the government’s dedication to maintaining its global reputation for quality education and its commitment to eradicating exploitation. They will have several potential uses and benefits for the country:
Enhanced International Reputation: Australia’s international education sector will continue to be seen as a reliable and reputable destination for students seeking a world-class education. This move will help attract genuine students who genuinely contribute to the nation’s economy and society.
Protection of Vulnerable Students: The increase in savings requirements and enhanced scrutiny will protect international students from falling prey to unscrupulous education providers who may exploit them for financial gain. Students will be better equipped to support themselves and focus on their studies.
Reduction in Exploitative Practices: By cracking down on unscrupulous operators and closing loopholes, the government will send a strong message that exploitation in any form will not be tolerated. This will lead to a more ethical and sustainable international education sector.
Economic Benefits: The international education sector is a significant contributor to Australia’s economy. By ensuring the sector’s integrity, the government safeguards this vital source of revenue and economic growth.
Improved Education Quality: With measures in place to deter substandard education providers, the overall quality of education offered to international students is likely to improve. This, in turn, enhances Australia’s standing in the global education landscape.
The Australian government’s proactive measures to eliminate worker exploitation and maintain the integrity of the international education sector are commendable steps towards a fairer, more ethical, and prosperous Australia. These measures not only address immediate concerns but also position the country as a global leader in education and labor rights. As Australia continues to attract international students and workers, it does so with a renewed commitment to fairness, quality, and integrity.
