Australia’s higher education regulator, TEQSA, has issued a warning to all registered education providers in the country, highlighting potential compliance risks related to the recruitment, admission, and support of international students. The chief commissioner of TEQSA, Peter Coaldrake, emphasized that institutions need to ensure robust admissions and student support processes to mitigate and identify key risks. This warning follows concerns of unethical recruitment practices, students changing providers shortly after arrival, and inadequate information provided to overseas students during the recruitment process.

TEQSA’s move to address these concerns underscores the importance of maintaining the integrity of Australia’s international education sector. The regulator is urging institutions to take steps to safeguard the reputation of Australian education, which relies heavily on the diversity, financial sustainability, and research capabilities provided by international students.

The regulatory focus on these issues aligns with the ongoing efforts to ensure that international students receive high-quality education and a supportive environment during their studies. This also emphasizes the role of education agents, who play a critical role in student recruitment. While Australia has stringent regulations for education agents, concerns over their practices persist.

The warning by TEQSA could prompt institutions to review their recruitment and admissions practices and tighten oversight of agent behavior. Maintaining transparent and ethical practices will be crucial in preserving Australia’s reputation as a preferred destination for international education.