The Australian Technology Network of Universities (ATN) welcomes today’s announcement by Minister Hawke and Minister Tudge that provides flexibility for international students as they return to Australia.

The new settings further protect the post-study work rights of international students and extend the temporary graduate visa from two years to three years for masters by coursework graduates.

These extensions of existing measures will ensure that students will not be disadvantaged due to Australia’s border being closed and coupled with this week’s announcement by Prime Minister Scott Morrison clearly indicate that Australia is looking forward to welcoming international students back to resume their studies.

Further, regulatory fee relief will be extended throughout 2022 and the current FEE-HELP loan fee exemption will be extended to 31 December 2022.

These changes to the visa settings in particular provide students with much needed support as Australia’s borders open.

Quotes attributable to ATN Executive Director, Mr Luke Sheehy:

“The Federal Government has demonstrated much needed support for Australia’s highly successful international education sector.

“These announcements demonstrate to the wider Australian public that international students are valuable members of the Australian community.”