Australia's international education sector is starting to get concerned about the future growth of Chinese student numbers as Australian universities start establishing more campuses in China and the Chinese government pushes government officials to send their children to Chinese Universities.

The number of Chinese students commencing study in Australia rose 6.4 per cent to more than 78,000 in 2013, the first increase since 2009 when Chinese student numbers dropped after bad publicity about student safety in Australia and sub-standard vocational colleges. However, these increases may not be sustainable.

The Australian Financial Review reports that state-owned newspaper China Daily has observed a downtrend in Chinese students leaving China for studies. It notes a key reason for this is that high-profile educational institutions, including Melbourne’s Monash University and New York University, are setting up campuses in China and giving parents more options.

Another factor is the "push from the central government for officials to send their children to university in China rather than overseas, as a show of confidence in the country’s education system” reports the Australian Financial Review.

Did you know?

Migration Agents are required by law (Section 292B of the Migration Act 1958) to hold Professional Indemnity Insurance for at least $250,000 cover.

What is Professional Indemnity Insurance?

The following argument has been occurring between the OMARA and RMA, Carl Smart between 6 March 2014 and 14 March 2014.  Mr Smart is now seeking legal advice through an accredited specialist in tax and finance law.  In the mean time, I will FOI the qualifications for this OMARA Officer to ensure they are qualified to be giving advice of this kind.  In my opinion, it is not enough for an officer at OMARA to say, 'I understand that'.  An officer's understanding is not 'fact in law'.

OMARA EMAIL TO CARL SMART

Dear Mr Smart,

Personal Insurance for 457 Visa Holders

The Migration Alliance is pleased to announce it has recently entered into a Partnership with Make A Difference Insurance for the provision of personal insurance services to 457 Visa Holders. 

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MARCH 2014 – COMMUNITY LIAISON UPDATE

Dear Community Liaison network members

I am pleased to provide the community liaison update for March 2014.