Australia risking major reputational damage over education visas mess

Stephen Manallack

February 20

Something weird is happening in denying visas for education study in Australia.

Students from India, Pakistan and Nepal are most impacted by the visa denials.

"The unequivocal message this sends… is both unfair and unbecoming"

The Independent Tertiary Education Council Australia (ITECA) is a membership-based peak body bringing together independent providers in the higher education, vocational education and training sectors. It has made some comments which are sensible and powerful.

"This situation not only undermines the aspirations of Indian nationals with the genuine intention to pursue educational opportunities in Australia, but also casts a shadow over the nation's reputation as a welcoming and inclusive study destination," ITECA chief executive, Troy R Williams, said.

"The unequivocal message this sends — that Indian students are somehow less desirable or unwelcome in the eyes of the Australian government — is both unfair and unbecoming of Australia's long-standing values of diversity and inclusivity."

ITECA – which has previously voiced concern about the migration strategy – also said that the government's actions "seem to be at odds with broader governmental efforts to strengthen economic and security relationships with India".