Universities Australia CEO: International Students Boost Economy, Not Housing Crisis
Luke Sheehy, CEO of Universities Australia, has underscored the vital role international students play in Australia's economy, skills pipeline, and global connections. He dismisses claims that international students are causing the housing crisis, instead attributing it to long-term underinvestment in housing construction.
Sheehy points out that international students contribute significantly to Australia's economy. They drive 20% of Victoria's GDP and 10% of New South Wales' GDP. Nationally, the sector contributes $52 billion annually.
Sheehy believes that without international students, Australia's economy would have been in a recession in 2023. He emphasizes that they are not the cause of the housing crisis, but rather a victim of it, as they face challenges finding accommodation alongside local residents.
The Albanese Government, led by Minister Jason Clare and Assistant Minister Rowan Holzberger, has pledged growth in the international education sector. However, they want to control student numbers and tie increases to more student housing and a focus on Southeast Asia. Universities Australia, under Sheehy's leadership, is ready to collaborate with the government on these issues, but reinvestment is needed after significant funding cuts to universities.
