Experts Feel That Limits On Australian Student Visas Will Affect Tourism

30 Jul 2010

There is criticism from the Australian tourism industry with regards to limits on Australian immigration which would be introduced shortly.  As per new Australian PM (Prime Minister) Julia Gillard, there would be cuts in annual intake of immigrants into Australia from 270,000 immigrants to 130,000 annually. Also, Tony Abbott, Australia’s Opposition Leader agreed on putting annual cap on Australian immigration level.

According to a recent report by ATEC (Australian Tourism Export Council), overseas students make a quality contribution to Australian economy. Mr.Hingerty added that almost 50 percent of the total annual receipts come from the inbound visitors from the international students. He maintained that limiting Australian student visas will not just affect Australian tourism but several other sectors of nation’s economy. Each year, Australia’s international education sector contributes AUS $26 billion to Australian economy.

Hence, the ATEC warned of the worst effects of planned cuts in Australian immigration, particularly reduction in student visas, on the economy of Australia. The volatile condition being faced by Australian tourism is in dire need of not just international student market but increased number of visitors associated with these international students.