Regions reap benefits from international students

Minister for Trade John Mickel and Member for Barron River Mr Stephen Wettenhall visited James Cook University’s Cairns campus today to highlight the valuable contribution international study brings to Queensland.

More than 250 international students study at James Cook University’s Cairns campus, selecting the university for its courses in tropical health and medicine, tropical science, the environment and marine science, as well as experiencing the Cairns lifestyle.

“James Cook University is an example of a highly internationalised university with world-acclaimed research academics bringing the benefits of their international experience to share with local and international students,” Mr Mickel said.

“Last year, more than 80 000 international students were enrolled in Queensland education and training institutions. International education and training was Queensland’s third largest service export, earning over A$1.89 billion in 2007-2008.

“The contribution of international students is not just economic. International students provide a fresh multicultural perspective to share with Queensland regions within their classrooms, workplaces and in the local communities.

“And students often maintain their links with Queensland after returning home. This can lead to mutually beneficial business relationships between our State and other global regions,” said Mr Mickel.

Member for Barron River, Mr Stephen Wettenhall MP voiced a similar appreciation for the international student community and the impact that it has on regional Queensland.

“The Cairns region is recognised internationally for its tourism hotspots. This reputation is now beginning to extend to its outstanding education, research facilities and expertise, and specialised tropical knowledge,” Mr Wettenhall said.

Mr Mickel said that in Australia, the international higher education sector alone employed more than
50 000 people and was an important sector for Queensland employees.

“International students translate into more jobs for Australians,” Mr Mickel said.

Through Queensland Education and Training International (QETI), Trade Queensland works with the State’s 330 international education and training providers to ensure the sustainability and growth of the industry, and to enhance the experience of international students.

Media contact: 3237 1129

21 January 2009