Australia reassures India on student safety, unveils new international education measures

Australia has introduced a new set of measures to strengthen its international education framework and migration pathway, aiming to attract top-tier students and young professionals from around the world.

The announcement comes at a time when Indian families are seeking clarity following isolated racism-related rallies that gained disproportionate attention online.

Julian Hill, Assistant Minister for International Education, said that the recent social media sentiment does not reflect the country’s reality.

“Australia is the safest country in the world and one of the most successful multicultural societies,” he said.

“Social media often gives a loud microphone to a negative minority, but they do not represent Australia,” he added.

Indians remain one of Australia’s fastest-growing skilled migrant groups, with Hindus and Sikhs of Indian origin accounting for nearly 4% of the national population.

Melbourne continues to host close to 40% of the Indian community, with large-scale Diwali festivities and the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne becoming mainstays of the city’s cultural calendar.

Although Indian students traditionally favored the United States, Hill noted that Australia’s value proposition differs. He emphasized the priorities of families investing in overseas education.

“Parents invest heavily in education. They want safety first, just like I would want my daughter to be safe abroad. Quality is the second factor. We are not a cheap country but a quality destination,” Hill said.

He also reiterated that students are permitted to work 24 hours a week but must demonstrate financial preparedness.

Australia’s higher education network, he said, is among the most comprehensive worldwide, known for strong research output and industry ties.

Nine Australian institutions now rank in the global top 100, supported by a robust research ecosystem and active partnerships with industry that offer graduates a competitive edge.

The government is increasing its outreach in South India, including Telangana, which Hill characterized as a center of innovation and a strong source of research talent.

Australia’s migration rules have been tightened in recent years. He acknowledged that while earlier students often sought permanent residency, a rising share now prefer to return to India with international exposure.

“There is nothing wrong in seeking migration,” Hill said, adding, “Students who do not qualify for skilled visas must return. Our goal is to ensure students come to study, not purely to migrate.”

Hill also warned against fraudulent documentation during visa processes. “In some parts of India, we see fake English language skill test scores and fake bank statements. The Australian High Commission is strict. Genuine students have nothing to worry about.”

While IT programs attract substantial interest from Indian applicants, Australia is encouraging greater participation in engineering, health, sciences, and business.

Hill noted that students from South India are particularly drawn to research-intensive pathways, mirroring the region’s growing technology and start-up sectors.

Among the key initiatives is the MATES program, which offers up to 3,000 visas for high-performing graduates from leading Indian universities in IT, science, and technology.

Participants can work in Australia for two to three years, with selections made from a competitive applicant pool.

“This program will become a strong bridge between India and Australia,” Hill said, calling it a long-term talent partnership between the two countries.