Empowering Education: Australia's Student Protection Plan

Amisha Kumari

Updated On Dec 1, 2023

Empowering Education: Australia's Student Protection Plan

The Australian Government recently introduced measures to safeguard international students' interests and enhance their study experience within the country. These measures encompass a range of reforms intended to strengthen, support, and provide quality assurance within the education system.

The Australian government introduced new rules to stop fraud and exploitation in the student visa system. They banned agents from getting commissions for moving students between schools and from owning any schools. The government will watch student attendance closely to check for problems. They're also setting up a special unit to make sure schools follow the rules, especially in vocational education and training.

Strengthening Oversight and Quality Assurance

The government's initiatives include discontinuing fees paid to education agents by education and training providers for student transfers between institutions in Australia. Moreover, there will be increased transparency and access to education agent data for education providers, facilitating collaborations with high-quality agents. Establishing a VET Integrity Unit under the Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA) seeks to ensure the delivery of top-tier education and training while closely monitoring student attendance within the international education sector.

Amendments to the ESOS Act and Financial Capacity Requirements

Significant changes are coming to the rules for education providers in Australia. The Education Services for Overseas Students Act 2000 (ESOS Act) will soon have stricter tests for those running educational institutions, like owners and senior managers. These changes follow earlier updates concerning how much money students need for visas and the courses they can take at the same time.

Starting from October 1, 2023, students applying for a visa will need to prove they have at least AU$24,505 saved up for their yearly living expenses. These alterations aim to ensure better standards for education in Australia and help international students plan for their expenses more effectively.

Restrictions on Concurrent Enrollments and Support Services

Previously, the Australian Government prohibited international students from enrolling in two courses simultaneously within the first six months of their principal course. Concurrent enrollments during this initial period are now closed for international students. However, resources are available to assist international students facing issues with their education providers.

Resources Available to International Students

International students have access to various resources safeguarding their rights. These include mandatory student services provided by Australian education and training institutions under the ESOS Act. Additionally, the Tuition Protection Service (TPS) offers support to students affected by education provider closures, facilitating study continuation or tuition fee refunds. Furthermore, the Commonwealth Ombudsman investigates complaints concerning private schools, colleges, institutes, and universities, ensuring a channel for grievance redressal.

The Australian Government's proactive steps aim to fortify protections for international students, fostering a safer, higher-quality educational experience while studying in the country.

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FAQs

Q1: What is ESOS Act?

The ESOS Act stands for the Education Services for Overseas Students Act 2000. It is an Australian law established to ensure the quality of education and services provided to international students studying in Australia. The ESOS Act sets out standards and regulations that education institutions must comply with when enrolling and supporting overseas students. It covers areas such as student support services, tuition and financial protections, enrollment procedures, and information provision to students, aiming to safeguard the rights and welfare of international students.

Q2: Where can international students seek help regarding grievances with their education provider?

International students facing issues with their education provider can reach out to various resources, including local state or territory Ombudsman services and the Commonwealth Ombudsman, for assistance and resolution.

Q3: Is it possible to pursue studies in Australia without IELTS?

Answer: Yes, it's feasible to apply for study programs in Australia without presenting IELTS scores, albeit with certain prerequisites. Students aiming for admission into Australia's leading universities can apply without IELTS if they have completed their education in countries whose certificates are recognized by the Australian Education System.

Q4: What's the latest update regarding student visas in Australia?

Starting October 1, 2023, international students applying for a student visa will be required to demonstrate savings of $24,505, marking a 17% rise from previous requirements. This adjustment factors in indexation since 2019, as per the recent announcement by the Australian government.

Q5: Am I allowed to register for two courses simultaneously?

The policy for international students regarding enrollment now prohibits simultaneous registration in two courses within the initial six months of their primary course.