The new ruling, which provides international students a temporary work visa upon graduation from an Australian university, had sparked off many debates.
Many Australians are upset with the government’s decision as they think it will threaten their job opportunities.
As of 23rd March 2013, foreign graduates with a bachelor’s degree will be granted a two years work visa regardless of his/her field.
Those who have completed their masters and PhD will be allowed to extend their stay in Australia up to three and four years respectively.
However, this work visa does not guarantee foreign graduates a career.
The recent career exhibition, The Big Meet, held at Crown had proved such a case.
Only 30 exhibitors out of 100 exhibitors welcomed international students to apply.
A closer look revealed that most of the 30 exhibitors are actually overseas internship opportunities and careers out of Australia.
This means that only approximately 15% of Australian companies will accept international students.
In addition, many international students who qualify for the visa expansion have no intentions of working in Australia after graduation.
Junior intern of Meld Magazine Lupita Iluna said that like most of her non-local friends, she wishes to return home upon graduation.
“Many of us miss home,” she said.
International students who obtained their primary visa before 11th November 2011 are ineligible for this new visa scheme.
According to City of Melbourne council, international students make up 55% of the students living and studying in the city.
The school fees each international student pay for a semester is a five-figure sum.
It is no wonder that Australia’s third largest source of revenue comes from international education.
The implemented law hopes to change Australia into a highly desirable place for quality foreign students.
If the change succeeds in portraying Australia as the ideal place to study and work in, more international students will choose to study in Australia.
This influx of revenue from international school fees will enable the government to spend more money on other aspects such as healthcare and construction.
Quality of life will improve and more jobs will be created in the process.
Perhaps it is unnecessary for Australians to worry about their jobs being at stake.
World Mun Melbourne 2013 Communications and Marketing Senior Director Charles Chia said that the government’s plan will be tough as policies will not work just on its own.
“There is a long way to go… Of course, if the visa policies are favourable, it will attract more international students.” Mr. Chia said.
Mr. Chia also added on that international students will make local jobs more vibrant and that “competition is always good”.
The policy can go in many different ways, but only time will tell.
