The number of overseas students studying in Australian higher education institutions has soared to all-time highs.
Figures released last week show that in 2017 alone, Australia was home to 525,000 overseas students – a 12 per cent increase over the previous year.
The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) data reveals that the highest concentrations of Australia’s newest students can be found around university campuses and the inner suburbs in Melbourne and Sydney.
Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull said the rise in foreign students has been the biggest driving factor of immigration growth.
“There are around 200,000 more foreign students in Australia today than there were a few years ago,” he stated.
However, the rise in overseas students has prompted concerned from many commentators, who believe Australia does not have the required infrastructure or housing to cope with the influx. There is also concern that the rising number of foreign students will help to push up property prices in the areas popular with students.
A spokesperson for Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack, who has responsibility for population issues, said the Federal Government was working with its state counterparts to address competing challenges prompted by population growth.
“Future population growth, busting congestion and investing in projects to ensure people can get to home, university and work and back again sooner and safer is a key focus of the Government,” they said.
Article published 1st May 2018