Australian university leaders have warned they are struggling to fill international student places, citing visa uncertainty and political debate on immigration. Latest figures from the Department of Education in October indicate that universities are, on average, filling just two-thirds of their allocated places.
Only five public universities, all located in capital cities, have reached more than 80% capacity. Regional areas are reportedly the hardest hit, with Charles Sturt University, which has campuses across regional New South Wales, stating it has filled only 40% of its international student cap this year.
Mike Ferguson, pro vice-chancellor of international students at Charles Sturt University, attributed the decline to government policy, including increased visa application fees of $2,500 and high refusal rates. He also cited growing uncertainty from announcements by the Coalition and One Nation targeting international students.
Professor Andrew Norton, a higher education expert, stated that declining international student numbers are affecting all public universities, as these fees cross-subsidise teaching and research. George Williams, vice-chancellor of Western Sydney University, warned that financial deficits could impact domestic students, as international students heavily subsidise them.