On July 1, Australia announced a significant change that has shocked Indian students.
The Australian government has increased the student visa fee, affecting students from all countries planning to study in Australia.
The visa fee has risen from 710 dollars to 1600 dollars.
For Indian students, this means that instead of paying about 59,277 rupees, they will now have to pay 133,584 rupees.
Australia’s federal government has raised student visa fees, stating that this move will bolster the country’s revenue and foster advancements in education.
Additionally, it aims to reduce the debt burden on graduate students and provide assistance to new students.
Education Minister Jason Dean Clare emphasized the significance of international education as a crucial national asset,
stressing the importance of maintaining its integrity and quality.
Number of Indian students in Australia
According to the Indian High Commission, there were 120,277 Indian students in Australia as of August 2023.
Similarly, in 2022, more than one lakh Indian students also went to Australia for their studies.
Previously, Canberra, the capital of Australia, has been a preferred choice for Indian students.
However, following recent government decisions, the aspirations of many students to study in Australia may be dashed.
However, Yeganeh Soltanpur, the National President of the Council of International Students Australia, criticized the decision, stating that the fee hike will impose additional financial strain on international students.
He expressed concern that despite investing heavily in their education, students may face disappointment if job opportunities do not materialize.
Consequently, many students are now exploring study options in countries other than Australia.
‘It will affect relations with neighbours’
Phil Honeywood, Chief Executive Officer of the International Education Association of Australia, stated to the media that this announcement marks a critical blow to the international education sector.
He emphasized that the country risks losing US $48 billion and that this move could also strain relations with Indo-Pacific neighbors.
