IRU and RUN urge sustainable, equitable growth in international education
The Innovative Research Universities (IRU) and Regional Universities Network (RUN) have issued a joint statement outlining a five-point plan to reform Australia’s international education system. The plan emphasises the need for sustainable growth and equitable access, ensuring that the benefits of international education are shared by all Australians, including regional communities.
Five-point plan targets sector-wide reform
The IRU and RUN’s five-point plan calls for:
- Balanced enrolment growth: Advocating for managed, sustainable increases in international student numbers to avoid over-concentration in metropolitan areas and to support regional campuses.
- Equitable funding and support: Ensuring regional and outer-metro universities receive fair funding and resources to attract, support, and retain international students.
- Quality and integrity: Maintaining high standards of academic quality, student support, and compliance to protect the reputation of Australian education.
- Community engagement: Encouraging deeper engagement between universities, local communities, and industry to maximise the social and economic benefits of international education.
- Policy certainty: Calling for clear, stable government policy settings to support long-term planning and sector resilience.
Sector leaders highlight importance of regional inclusion
The joint statement stresses that equitable reform is essential to ensure all parts of Australia benefit from international education, not just major cities. Regional universities play a critical role in diversifying student experiences and supporting local economies.
A call for government action and partnership
IRU and RUN are urging policymakers to work closely with universities to implement the five-point plan. They argue that a balanced and sustainable approach will strengthen Australia’s global education reputation and deliver lasting benefits for students, communities, and the national economy.
