- Australia is promoting broader fields of study beyond IT, including engineering, sciences, health, and business
- The MATES programme offers up to 3,000 visas for high-performing graduates from top Indian universities in IT, science, and technology, enabling them to work in Australia for two to three years
- Hill described the initiative as a long-term bridge fostering talent and collaboration between India and Australia
Australia has unveiled a series of reforms to its international education and migration policies, reinforcing its position as a top destination for talented students and young professionals from around the world. The move comes amid concerns among some Indian parents and students following isolated incidents of racism and negative social media coverage. Julian Hill, Assistant Minister for International Education, emphasized that such events are not reflective of Australia’s overall social fabric. “Australia is one of the safest countries in the world and a highly successful multicultural society,” he said. “Social media can amplify a small minority, but they do not represent the country.”
- Indians are now among the fastest-growing skilled migrant groups in Australia, with Hindus and Sikhs from Indian heritage accounting for nearly 4% of the nation’s population
- Melbourne has emerged as a cultural hub for the Indian community, hosting vibrant Diwali celebrations and the internationally acclaimed Indian Film Festival of Melbourne, the largest showcase of Indian cinema outside India
Historically, the United States was the preferred destination for Indian students, but Australia’s strategy emphasizes safety and quality of education over cost. Hill highlighted that parents prioritize the safety of their children while investing in high-standard education. Australian universities consistently rank among the world’s top institutions, with nine universities appearing in the global top 100. The combination of academic excellence, strong research capabilities, and industry partnerships ensures students receive significant returns on their educational investment.
The government is also targeting talent from southern India, particularly Telangana, recognizing the region as a hub for innovation, research, and technology. While earlier cohorts focused on permanent residency, a growing number of Indian students now seek global experience before returning home. Hill clarified, “Our goal is to ensure students come to study, not purely to migrate.”
Genuine students are encouraged to apply, but Hill warned against fraudulent practices, such as falsified English test scores or bank statements, which are strictly monitored by the Australian High Commission. Students can work up to 24 hours per week during their studies, provided they have sufficient funds to support themselves.
