International Education and Training Strategy to Advance 2016-2026 Cover images: Copyright: © The State of Queensland 2016. Copyright protects this material. Enquiries should be addressed to [email protected] Courtesy of James Cook Unversity (left) Disclaimer: The information presented in this booklet is distributed by the Queensland Government as an information source only. Courtesy of Education Queensland International (middle) The State of Queensland makes no statements, representations, or warranties about the accuracy or completeness of, and you should not rely on, any information contained in this publication. Images this page: The Queensland Government disclaims all responsibility and all liability (including without limitation, liability in negligence) for all expenses, losses, damages and costs you might incur as a result of the information being inaccurate or incomplete in any way, and for any reason. Courtesy of Tourism and Events Queensland (left) Any reference to any specific organisation, product or service does not constitute or imply its endorsement or recommendation by the State of Courtesy of Education Queensland International (middle) Queensland. Courtesy of James Cook Unversity (right)

2 | International Education & Training Foreword International education and training (IET) is our This strategy focuses on four strategic imperatives: As one of Queensland’s most valuable industries, second biggest service export and is vital to Promoting Queensland Internationally; Enhancing IET is a vital investment for our future. A robust the future prosperity of Queensland. In 2015, the Student Experience; Strengthening our IET industry drives innovation, builds a stronger IET in Queensland contributed $2.8 billion in Regions; and Connecting the Industry. To achieve economy, creates global business networks export revenue and supported 19,000 jobs. The continued collaboration with industry, these and creates more jobs across Queensland. It Queensland Government is committed to growing imperatives are supported by three enabling enhances Queensland’s global standing, enriches our IET sector, informed by the voice of the initiatives: IET Partnership Fund; IET Partnership our community and connects our students with industry. It is your strategy, your ideas, and your Plan; and the IET Summit. lifelong friendships all across the world. world class education and training delivery that will grow our shared future. Combined, this represents the most comprehensive We are determined to fully realise for Queensland suite of support for the sector in Queensland’s the global opportunities presented by IET, not just In 2015, Queensland hosted more than 100,000 history. And the time is right. Our opportunity now, but into the future. We are looking forward students coming from over 160 countries. These to leverage from the Queensland Governments to working with education and training providers, students were based across our state, from the Advancing Tourism 2016-20: Growing Queensland industry, government and the community to Gold Coast to , Toowoomba to Townsville, Jobs, Advance Queensland, Advancing education: An deliver our shared vision for a thriving IET sector Brisbane to Bundaberg and the Sunshine Coast action plan for education in Queensland and various here in Queensland. to Rockhampton. infrastructure projects has further embedded the collaborative approach to IET in Queensland. But we know that we can boost these numbers for the benefit of all Queenslanders. Currently, Queensland accounts for 16% of Australia’s international student numbers. Our modelling shows that increasing this share by just 4% will lift potential export revenue to $7.5 billion and deliver an additional 6,800 jobs across the state. In June 2016 the Queensland Government launched the draft International Education and Training Strategy to Advance Queensland 2016-2026 as a tool to drive this growth. In ten forums across Queensland 270 stakeholders engaged with us and workshopped the final strategy. We listened to the needs of each sector and each region to create this document – the The Honourable The Honourable International Education and Training Strategy to Curtis Pitt MP Kate Jones MP Yvette D’Ath MP Advance Queensland 2016-2026. Treasurer Minister for Education and Attorney-General and Minister Minister for Trade and Investment Minister for Tourism and for Justice and Minister for Major Events and the Training and Skills Commonwealth Games International Education & Training | 3 Contents

Strategy at a Glance 5 Queensland’s Opportunity 6 Growth Prospects 8 VISION Measuring Success 10 Queensland Government Commitment 11 Strategic Imperatives 13 Promoting Queensland Internationally 14 Enhancing the Student Experience 18 Strengthening our Regions 22 Connecting the Industry 24 Evaluation Framework 26 Implementation 27 GOAL

4 | International Education & Training Strategy at a Glance International Education and Training Strategy to Advance Queensland 2016-2026

STRATEGIC IMPERATIVES INITIATIVES

ENABLING INITIATIVES 1 IET Partnership 2 IET Partnership 3 IET Summit To ensure Queensland Government Fund Plan investment is targeted, leverages partnerships VISION and is closely monitored for impact

A strong and sustainable international education PROMOTING QUEENSLAND 4 Showcasing 5 Communicating 6 Major events 7 Bringing the world 8 Ministerial and training (IET) industry Queensland to with the world sponsorship, to Queensland education, INTERNATIONALLY the world participation and training and that facilitates global attraction research missions engagement, produces Attract the best and brightest students from lifelong ambassadors the most diverse range of markets across 9 Taking 10 Maximising 11 Facilitating 12 Queensland as 13 Embracing all sectors both onshore and offshore. Queensland global business for a high-quality disruption to for Queensland, and students to the partnerships and Queensland research support growth becomes a key catalyst world delivery options destination for growing Queensland’s knowledge economy. ENHANCING THE STUDENT EXPERIENCE 14 Improving 15 Affordable 16 Transport 17 Enhancing 18 State-wide pre-departure and quality connectivity and employability student hubs Improve student satisfaction with the awareness accommodation accessibility quality of their experience both inside and outside of the classroom. 19 Alumni 20 Harnessing the 21 Monitor quality 22 Student engagement student voice issues Innovation Challenge GOAL Harness Queensland’s comparative advantages STRENGTHENING OUR REGIONS 23 Regional 24 Local 25 IET and tourism to reposition Queensland international Government collaboration Increase the contribution of international education partnerships as a leading destination clusters for international education and training to regional education and training in economies and ensure that Queensland 26 Regional best 27 Supporting an offers the most diverse, comprehensive and practice network internationalised the Asia-Pacific schools sector region – aspiring to unique offerings to international students. across Queensland contribute to Australia’s overall standing and 20 per cent of the CONNECTING THE INDUSTRY 28 International 29 International 30 Ministerial 31 Queensland 32 Connecting with national market share Education and Education And Champion IET Excellence the national by 2026. Improve leadership, coordination and Training Unit Training Advisory Awards agenda Group advocacy and develop a Queensland perspective on industry issues and 33 Engage on 34 Community 35 Sector capacity 36 Improving data sectoral issues engagement building and and research opportunities. leadership development

International Education & Training | 5 Queensland’s Opportunity A strong international education and training The industry encompasses research, higher estimated 19,4702 (full time equivalent) jobs are industry drives innovation, builds a stronger education, vocational education and training (VET), generated from the IET sector with one third of these economy and creates more jobs. These are some schools and English Language Intensive Courses in Queensland’s regions. of the immediate and most obvious economic for Overseas Students (ELICOS). During their benefits provided by the industry, but the value educational experience international students may The contribution of IET to the Queensland economy of international education goes far beyond study in more than one sector. Clear pathways for takes a variety of forms and materialises across this. International education and training (IET) students are critical so that transitions between an array of sectors. Students contribute via their enhances Queensland’s global standing, enriches Queensland providers are seamless. expenditure on tuition fees and study materials communities, facilitates international diplomacy, as well as their expenditure on accommodation, creates global business networks and enhances International education and training is one of transport and their broader living costs. IET also Queensland’s research standing. Queenslanders Queensland’s most valuable industries. In dollar spurs economic activity via the flow-on tourism it also benefit from a global outlook and improved terms, in 2015, research from Australian Bureau stimulates. This includes, most directly, expenditure understanding of cultures through engagement of Statistics reported that IET contributed by friends and relatives who travel to Queensland with international students. $2.8 billion1 in export revenue to the Queensland to visit an international student (estimated at $11 economy. Deloitte Access Economics (DAE) million in 2015).

1 Australian Bureau of Statistics’ 2015 publication International Trade in 2 The opportunity and imperative for Queensland’s international 6 International Education & Training Services. education and training sector, Deloitte Access Economics, May 2016. Image courtesy of Bond University In addition, tourism research has shown that we will continue to use our expertise in Queensland’s International Education Queensland is a favoured destination with many delivering solutions for global clients. This and Training Broader Benefits international students in other Australian states includes mobilising the sector to respond to visiting with friends and relatives during their aid and development projects, transnational studies. partnerships, research alliances and technology-based solutions. Emerging sectors Industry Queensland institutions also generate revenue such as EdTech and edu-tourism offer further and improve our global standing through opportunities that are yet to be fully explored. offshore programs. In 2014 more than 10,0001 Research Queensland has a highly diversified inbound Tourism collaboration Cultural students were enrolled with a Queensland Higher capital Education and/or Vocational Education and international student profile. Queensland draws Students visiting Developing Training (VET) institution with an estimated students from over 150 countries and has a friends global $56.6 million generated through this engagement. high proportion of students from China, India, & relatives citizens Brazil, South Korea and Taiwan. In order to remain competitive and respond to emerging Building QLD’s More inclusive There is significant opportunity for Queensland’s global society education and training expertise to be shared opportunities, Queensland must work hard with profile across the globe, through offshore partnerships providers to seek a balanced mix of mature and Public Cultural diplomacy diversity and programs. To ensure we diversify our emerging source countries. Consumption offerings and maximise returns for Queensland, Accomodation, 1 International student data December 2015, Australian Education food & other International. retail

UNDERPINNING STRENGTHS

World class Higher education An advanced A demonstrated Unique regional Excellent A safe and Queensland A well-established education and and research economy with Government diversity accessibility relaxed lifestyle boasts unrivalled multicultural training bodies performing world-class commitment with half the and direct in a clean, natural community, providers well in global infrastructure to innovation population and international green and warm attractions with a wide variety delivering quality rankings, with attracting global and knowledge one-third of airport links environment. including the of ethnic and faith teaching across a particular areas players ranging from industries international to major regional Great Barrier Reef, organisations diverse range of of expertise in aviation and defence, led by the students living centres. A Queensland’s contributing to subjects. aviation and food and agriculture, Advance outside the diverse mix of famous beaches cuisines, sport defence, agriculture information and Queensland capital. international and many of and social life. technology, mining, communication program. and Australian Australia’s World engineering, technology, financial students. Heritage-listed tropical science services, tourism and sites. and tropical health. mining.

International Education & Training | 7 Growth Prospects IET has been identified as one of the fastest-growing industries in the global economy and Australia is expected to be a major beneficiary of that growth. Growth of the middle class of key markets is likely to increase demand for a ‘global’ education, with a projected global shortage of 85 million medium-skilled and highly-skilled workers by 2020.

As a result, 1.1 billion learners are expected to be participating in education by 2026 just from Australia’s key source markets. DAE estimates that if Australia reaches just 1 per cent of these global learners, and Queensland maintains its current share, Queensland, could reach over 675,000 learners by 2026. Online learning and EdTech will take on an increasing role to deliver on this opportunity.

Under ‘business as usual’ assumptions, onshore international student visa enrolments in Queensland have the potential to increase from 103,251 in 2015 to 150,600 by 2026. This translates to a 10-year compounding annual growth rate of 2.9 per cent, or a cumulative increase of 33 per cent over 10 years to 2026.

Queensland’s proportion of national Proportion of total student enrolments market share by sector 2015 by sector in 2015

Govt Schools 2.5% Non-Govt Schools 2% Overall national Non-award 6% market share 16% Higher Education 14.5% (Public) 32.5% Higher education ELICOS (Private) 17% VET 16.2%

20.9% ELICOS Schools (Public) 8% Higher Education ELICOS 17.9% (Private) 5.5% VET (Public) 2.5% Other 5% VET (Private) 24% National market 100% 645,185 enrolments

Source: The opportunity and imperative for Queensland’s Source: International student data December 2015, international education and training sector, Deloitte Access Australian Education International. Economics, May 2016.

8 | International Education & Training Image courtesy of Shafston International College By applying the forecasted cumulative Queensland’s offshore enrolments and value 2015 increase in onshore student visa enrolments, the export revenue is forecast to rise from just over $2.8 billion in 2015 to $4.6 billion in 2026 for the Queensland economy. For regional Queensland (outside of Brisbane), the ‘business as usual’ scenario projects 10,594$56.6 million student-related expenditure to rise from 7,713 2,881 Range of direct offshore students with industry and $937 million in 2015 to $1.5 billion in 2026. offshore students Queensland public higher education transnational and private partnerships VET providers There is also capacity for these figures to be boosted by diversity in the student profile. A move from generic courses to science, engineering and medicine and a focus on post-graduate courses would increase the Projected regional share of international enrolments by sector’s diversity, sustainability and yield. region “business as usual” scenario 2016-2021 Attracting and retaining students from primary and high school programs into undergraduate and postgraduate study is also a means to improve sustainability and, as importantly, (Cairns) 13,890 16,190 Tropical North Queensland support broader community engagement and student success. Given Queensland’s 3,440 4,140 desirability as a study tour market, we can also (Townsville) Northern Queensland track and leverage this cohort to deliver ‘repeat Whitsundays 440 540 2,490 3,060 business’. Exploring options for continued Mackay growth and effective operating models for 740 890 transnational delivery, particularly in the VET 750 910 sector, will further extend our global footprint. Central Queensland Bundaberg 3,850 4,490 Growth prospects are only possible with the Fraser Coast right visa settings, a strong focus on quality, Sunshine Coast 5,420 6,360 and commitment to delivering exceptional Brisbane 50,970 61,860 Darling Downs student experience. Gold Coast 1,660 1,990

2016 2021 25,280 30,030

Source: The opportunity and imperative for Queensland’s international education and training sector, Deloitte Access Economics, June 2016.

International Education & Training | 9 Measuring Success This would deliver an additional $2.8 billion per Student satisfaction VISION annum in export earnings, adding to a total of The Queensland Government, in partnership A strong and sustainable international education and training $7.5 billion. DAE estimate this would add $1.7 billion with the Australian Government and education industry that facilitates global engagement, produces lifelong to Queensland’s gross state product at 2026 and ambassadors for Queensland, and becomes a key catalyst for institutions, carries out a biennial International create an additional 6,800 full-time jobs. growing Queensland's knowledge economy. Student Barometer (ISB) Survey. The ISB tracks Benchmarks (2015): 16 per cent national market and compares decision making, expectations, share, 103,251 enrolments, $2.8 billion export perceptions and intentions of international GOAL revenue and 19,470 jobs students. Queensland will continue to track our 2026 target: 20 per cent national market share Harness Queensland’s comparative advantages to reposition state performance against this benchmark to Queensland as a leading destination for international Tracking: Year in review ensure we are meeting students’ expectations and education and training in the Asia-Pacific region – aspiring addressing any areas that may require action. to contribute to Australia’s overall standing and 20 per cent of the national market share by 2026. Capitalising on the potential for regions Benchmark (2014): 85.2 per cent overall student satisfaction This Strategy benchmarks Queensland’s Queensland’s regions will be key contributors to 2026 target: To be determined after performance in comparison with the national the success of the Strategy. The DAE ‘business as the 2016 ISB Survey average. It sets an industry-wide aspirational usual’ scenario projects student related expenditure Tracking: Biennial ISB Report national market share target of 18 per cent by (outside Brisbane) to rise from $937 million in 2015 2021 and 20 per cent by 2026. Achieving these to $1.5 billion in 2026. Under the aspirational target aspirational targets will require balanced growth student related expenditure outside Brisbane could Sector engagement and satisfaction rise to $2.4 billion in 2026. Given the opportunity across the four sectors and across a diverse range The success of the Strategy will also be measured of markets rather than growth at all costs. to leverage tourism and the visiting friends and relatives (VFR) market we also aspire to increase through client satisfaction and engagement with Queensland Government services. From 2017 we To achieve these targets, Queensland will need the number of student visitor nights in Queensland regions generated from international education. will conduct the first IET Sector Survey to inform to average a growth rate of international student our work, measure impact and understand client commencements of more than five per cent per Benchmarks (2015): 34 per cent of international expectations and satisfaction. Engagement will annum. This growth rate is in line with the Australian student nights outside the capital city and also be measured through applications to the Government’s National International Education $937 million student-related expenditure IET Partnership Fund and support generated for Strategy. A defining feature for Queensland is our 2026 target: 10 per cent growth of international students outside the capital city and joint projects and campaigns. diversity. Of all Australian states, Queensland $2.4 billion student-related expenditure has the most diversified onshore student profile, Tracking: Year in review Benchmark (2017): To be determined measured by source market mix, field and course after first client survey of study, as well as location of study. We need to 2026 target: To be determined maintain this diversity and employ strategies that Tracking: Annual IET Sector Survey Report play to our strengths. The modelling shows that by 2026 onshore enrolments may reach 193,250.

10 | International Education & Training Queensland Government Commitment

The Queensland Government has committed $25.3 million over five years to fund initiatives Queensland’s Enabling Initiatives under four strategic imperatives: Promoting Queensland Internationally; Enhancing the Student Experience; Growing our Regions; and 1 International The IET Partnership Fund will provide financial support for collaborative Connecting the Industry. Education initiatives that assist in positioning Queensland as a leader in international education. An annual fund of $1.2 million will be available The imperatives were tested during state-wide and Training to consortia to deliver initiatives relating to the four strategic imperatives consultation with more than 270 stakeholders, Partnership Fund of the Strategy and will encourage matching funds to leverage greater representing all parts of the IET industry. investment in international education and training. Stakeholders indicated support for the proposed direction and confirmed that focusing on the four strategic imperatives offered the most effective way forward. 2 International The IET Partnership Plan will build on advice from the sector to inform Education and IETU’s annual program of marketing and promotion. This plan will span Delivery of the Strategy and reaching our sectors and regions with the aim to align collective marketing and aspirations require a true partnership between Training promotional efforts. The Partnership Plan will be developed in concert government and industry. We have heard the Partnership Plan with the sector and will include information about digital campaigns, stakeholders’ message that we need to increase trade fairs and events, cooperative marketing activities, alumni events, ministerial trade events and inbound familiarisation visits. our existing efforts and invest strategically for the future. We need to be nimble to respond to market changes and opportunities. We need to be prepared for changes to visa frameworks, the 3 International The IET Summit will bring together the industry and supporting partners value of the Australian dollar, global security issues to plan for future activities, reflect on strategy implementation and tackle and the Australian political landscape. We need to Education emerging issues. The event will enable all sectors, regions and supporting invest at grassroots level and bring innovation to and Training service providers to coordinate, collaborate and engage with government. us. And we need a way to keep score and change The event will be held in key locations across Queensland on an annual tack depending on the market situation. Summit basis.

It is for these reasons that three enabling initiatives have been created to ensure that Queensland Under the strategic imperative, Connecting the Industry, an International Education and Training Government investment is targeted, leverages Advisory Group, chaired by the Ministerial Champion and comprising representatives from all sectors, partnerships and is closely monitored for impact. will advise on implementation of the IET Strategy. The International Education and Training Unit (IETU) in Trade and Investment Queensland (TIQ) will act as the central point of coordination to deliver the IET Strategy.

International Education & Training | 11 12 | International Education & Training Image courtesy of Griffith University Strategic Imperatives The following section provides an overview of the remaining 33 initiatives that will be delivered across four strategic imperatives. The initiatives are designed to benefit all sectors, all regions and all Queenslanders. In their totality, this represents the most comprehensive suite of activities and targeted investment in Queensland’s history to support the d E international education and training sector. an nh sl a n y n e ll E c Promoting Queensland Internationally e a x in u n p g o g the e Q i tin In t Attract the best and brightest students from the t c d r h g e u i a n s e e most diverse range of markets across all sectors n n n Higher t n r i r o y S t education c both onshore and offshore. e C e o t t u n d m I Enhancing the Student Experience o ELICOS VET e r Queensland n

P Improve student satisfaction with the quality Government t of their experience both inside and outside of the classroom. Wider Schools services sector Strengthening our Regions

Increase the contribution of international education and training to regional economies and ensure that Queensland offers the most diverse, comprehensive and unique offerings St g to international students. rengthenin our Regions Connecting the Industry Improve leadership, coordination and advocacy and develop a Queensland perspective on industry issues and opportunities.

International Education & Training | 13 Promoting Queensland Internationally

We will promote Queensland and its unique institutional partner branding. Through targeted • Respond to market opportunities through offerings to attract the best and brightest and innovative marketing initiatives, conducted a collaborative approach to marketing and students from the most diverse range of collaboratively with the Queensland international promotion. markets across all sectors. In a crowded global education and training sector, we aim to: marketplace, a highly visible global brand and • Employ targeted engagement strategies in differentiated student experience are essential • Position Queensland as a preferred study line with priority markets and opportunities, to sustaining the international education and destination and partner of choice for clients. including a focus on growing offshore training industry in Queensland. Modernising the programs. Queensland brand and understanding different • Attract students from diverse markets, market segmentations is a priority. In promoting into diverse disciplines of study, in diverse • Generate more leads, business opportunities Queensland, we will draw on our key regions and locations. and referrals for the Queensland education city destinations, working alongside national and and training sector, through the TIQ global network.

14 | International Education & Training Image courtesy of Griffith University 4 A new branding We will work with the sector, regional study 7 Significant decision We will host inbound familiarisation tours Showcasing framework will be locations and the Australian Government to Bringing makers and influencers from targeted groups including overseas Queensland rebuild a contemporary Study Queensland brand. the world to scholarship bodies, government policy makers, developed to best from targeted countries to the world: We will engage experts to complete research Queensland institutional partners, agents and journalists. position Queensland and will be hosted in brand and on our brand attributes, Queensland’s unique – inbound We will work with the sector to prioritise other selling proposition and how to best position incoming delegations aligned to our key positioning key student destinations, familiarisation Queensland. Queensland in a competitive market place. markets. The tours will provide opportunities profiling the state’s tours There is significant scope to promote for all education sectors to be profiled and will unique competitive Queensland, and all of its diversity, as a be outlined in the IET Partnership Plan. strengths. destination for international students. It is vitally important that all of our promotional activity pushes the ‘quality education’ message, 8  Ministerial-led alongside the wonderful environmental and A forward program of Ministerial-led trade lifestyle advantages of Queensland. Core to Ministerial trade missions will missions to strategic partner or emerging education countries will raise Queensland’s profile in this is the development of a strong brand and be undertaken to integrated campaigns at the city, state and training and these markets and help to facilitate business consolidate relationships national level. research expansion for Queensland industry. We will ensure that education, training and research missions in existing markets and are also featured in other government travel to support entry into where relevant. 5  Creative and innovative We will deliver major web enhancements, emerging markets. Communicating digital resources and improved social media presence, video with the world content and virtual reality tools that promote marketing campaigns Queensland. Digital resources will cover the will be developed to full range of study areas and regional locations 9 We will promote the • We will work with providers and the promote a modern and available in Queensland. There will be continued Taking value of two-way Australian Government in promoting investment in at least two major campaigns per Queensland the value of an international education progressive Queensland. international education year building on the “Best Semester Abroad” students to experience during studies. This initiative and work with providers and the “Ultimate Gap Year” campaigns. Priority the world aims to grow the number of Queensland areas for future campaigns include under 18s, to encourage more students participating in student mobility VET, graduation travel and research students. activities (from schools, VET institutions Queensland students to In-market campaigns and ongoing content will and universities) and in national programs be managed through the TIQ global network. engage in international such as the New Colombo Plan and education. Endeavour Awards. By fostering the global experience either as an exchange student, study tour participant, intern or 6 Involvement in major We will maximise Queensland’s investment scholarship recipient, we will support global Major events targeted events will raise in key events such as the Gold Coast 2018 competence and build Queensland’s brand sponsorship, Commonwealth Games, the World Science awareness and help not just as a destination, but as a partner of participation Festival and the Australian New Zealand Agents choice for international education. position Queensland Conference (ANZA). We will also work to attract and attraction • Young Queenslanders will be supported as a preferred study and/or participate in education, training and research international events that showcase through Global Schools initiatives to destination. Queensland’s international education and develop an international mindset, enable training excellence. them to communicate across languages and cultures, and position them to engage in the new opportunities of a connected global economy.

International Education & Training | 15 10  We will work with Queensland providers are active participants in 12 We will utilise This includes: Maximise Queensland providers, the global education and training market. TAFE Grow the Queensland • Active promotion for international students global Queensland and VET providers are delivering Queensland’s across all sectors, Government’s Advance and researchers to take part in Advance partnerships skills training and consultancy throughout the reputation as to grow our success Queensland suite of Queensland PhD scholarships program and and delivery Asia Pacific. Queensland school curriculum a high-quality is delivered through innovative partnerships fellowships program respectively options in offshore delivery, research initiatives to continue offshore and our advice is sought on a range of • Developing priority international executive leadership destination to grow Queensland’s education and skills reform projects. Students agreements to drive global research programs and global and industry clients around the globe can engage global reputation as a engagement partnerships. with Queensland’s world class teaching and high-quality research research, through twinning partnerships, branch • Initiating campaigns (digital and print) to campuses and customised training programs. We destination. promote Queensland research excellence will continue to map and promote Queensland’s in key global markets. extensive global engagement. We will identify and respond to opportunities that match Queensland’s industry capability. Improved data and research that quantifies the value and impact 13  We will utilise the This includes: of global offshore delivery will be a priority. Embracing Queensland Government’s • Working closely with the EdTech community disruption Advance Queensland to support new approaches that transform to support suite of initiatives to international education and training growth build opportunities • Encouraging the formation and growth of 11  We will expand Trade and Investment Queensland’s offshore for investment and EdTech companies through the suite of Facilitating the state’s global network will be expanded to include Advance Queensland programs business for international education and training specialists development of offshore network to • Engaging with education and training Queensland that enable market access to Queensland’s technology solutions place education and largest markets including: China, India, Middle providers to embrace digital disruption – TIQ Global that aid the growth of the East, Indonesia, Latin America, Japan, Korea, for the benefit of international education Network training specialists in Singapore, Taiwan, Hong Kong and Europe. This international education including, new approaches in fintech, 11 priority locations online learning, simulated learning, digital will more than double the current efforts and sector. with a focus on growing ensure that Queensland providers are able to platforms and student engagement. international education, capitalise on market know-how and intelligence. International education and training specialists building Queensland will deliver value to Queensland institutions brand awareness and seeking to grow and sustain markets. The IET responding to market Partnership Plan will outline activities and priorities by market and sector. opportunities.

16 | International Education & Training Image courtesy of Queensland University of Technology International Education & Training | 17 Enhancing the Student Experience

Ensuring Queensland provides international We will seek to create a positive student students with the most positive and rewarding experience in Queensland for international experience is crucial to the ongoing sustainability students. This will be achieved by working of the sector. This applies to the student with industry, government, students and the experience both in and out of the classroom. broader community to: Queensland’s welcoming and relaxed lifestyle, warm climate and unique natural features • Provide affordable, quality lifestyle have long attracted international visitors. options across Queensland, including This natural appeal, coupled with world-class accommodation, transport, social and quality teaching and infrastructure in a safe and cultural activities. clean environment, are all major attractions for international students. • Ensure access to accurate information before, during and after studying in The student experience begins well before Queensland. arrival in destination. Students, their parents • Give a voice to Queensland’s international and agents will first consider Queensland’s students to identify and address issues. high-quality education and training institutions. This often includes consideration of academic • Monitor quality issues that impact students reputation (via rankings), employment outcomes inside and outside the classroom. and word-of-mouth recommendations. • Enhance employability options for students However, when considering an education and with international experience including training provider, the vast majority of students access to work integrated learning, will also investigate factors that contribute internships and volunteering. towards the total lived experience. This especially applies to accommodation, cost of living, transport, location, general living conditions and day-to-day practicalities. Again, reputation and word-of-mouth The concept of enhancing student experience recommendations are a key consideration. is all about community engagement. We need “ people to understand just what international students bring to this State. Quote from IET Forum Participant 2016

18 | International Education & Training Image courtesy of the University of Queensland ” 14  Detailed, timely and clear We will ensure that students coming to 17 We will create a package We know that global students highly value Improving student pre-departure Queensland have access to relevant information Enhancing of activities aimed at work experience that provides real-world skills. pre-departure prior to arriving to help them make important employability There is a role for government in working with information will be enhancing employability information and decisions and to support the transition to students, providers and employers to enhance provided. for students, which awareness studying in Queensland. We will work with employability. We will achieve this through: providers and destinations to create sector or benefit students, regional specific pre-departure content, deliver • Creating an online platform as a central employers and providers. digital education campaigns and explore options repository of available internships, Work for in-country joint pre-departure sessions. Integrated Learning (WIL) and work experience programs. The platform may also promote skills and workshops for students, information for business and 15 We will work to support We will achieve this through: ways for the community to engage. Affordable affordable and quality • Ensuring that planned growth in • We will expand the pilot with the Australia and quality student accommodation international students is supported with China Business Council and work with other accommodation affordable and quality accommodation bilateral business councils to roll out the options and promote options and that Queensland continues Export Partnership Program, which offers this as a strength for to be at the forefront of innovation in internships with Queensland exporters. Queensland. approaches to planning, regulation and investment attraction. • We will work with the state’s 115 accredited Visitor Information Centres (VICs) to offer • Working directly with accommodation volunteering experiences for students with providers, regulators, and local international experience. governments to design solutions that improve information for students in finding • We will keep abreast of regulatory changes and selecting appropriate accommodation. and programs at a national level and seek to • Engaging with schools and the hosts of create new ways for students and business under 18s, to investigate options to grow to benefit. homestay and accommodation for this • We will support campaigns, through market. institutions and student hubs, to ensure • Identifying and leveraging opportunities that students have information regarding for new student infrastructure through their work rights in Queensland. projects such as the Cross River Rail (CRR) and the CRR Economic Development Strategy in Brisbane and the City Deals project in Townsville (by way of example).

16 Transport Accessible and affordable We will work with Department of Transport and connectivity student transport Main Roads and other local service providers to and promote eligibility for student concession fares, options are an important accessibility develop new transport options and consider factor for all students. local connectivity issues that impact student experience.

International Education & Training | 19 Inside classroom focus Led by industry

Admissions Learning & Support Post study work e.g. application e.g. expert lecturers or further study process and response and counselling e.g. careers advice of offer and employability

Arrivals Graduation e.g. welcome and e.g. assessment orientation and farewells Institute Enhanced global promotion standing

Friend Future of Student Queensland

Study Queensland Networking promotion & promotion Arrivals Support Return home e.g. airport welcome e.g. host friends e.g. alumni and desks and city and family and work opportunities welcome festivals student hubs Pre-departure e.g. access to Living Work counselling and e.g. transport links e.g professional information and quality internships and accommodation part time jobs Outside classroom focus Support from Queensland Government, local government, education partners and other agencies

20 | International Education & Training 18 Local and relevant support We will work with local stakeholders to create a 20 International students We will work with the Council for International State-wide for international students network of state-wide student hubs and referral Harnessing will be given a Students Australia (CISA) to create the Queensland student hubs centres. Hubs will provide a range of services the student International Student Advisory Panel. The Panel will be provided through voice through the depending on the local need and will offer at voice will be a key voice to government on the needs student hubs. a base level – referral to service providers, first Queensland of students and will be led by a CISA Queensland deliver social and cultural activities to support International Student representative. The panel will provide advice to integration and promote further study options in the IETU and government on policy and programs Advisory Panel and other Queensland. In times of crisis, the hub will offer relating to international education and training. support directly to students and stakeholders. A opportunities to meet Representation will span students from all sectors Brisbane Student Hub pilot is currently underway decision makers. and membership of CISA is not a requirement. with Study Brisbane, Study Queensland, the State We will support initiatives such as ‘International Library and MDA Ltd as partners. Students Meet Parliament’ as a means to celebrate We will work with Queensland’s Visitor Information the contribution of international students. Targeted Centre (VIC) network to explore options for greater students will be chosen to share their experiences student services and engagement, including with Queensland Members of Parliament. 115 accredited VICs offering referral to the 1800 QSTUDY hotline for students and localised initiatives depending on the region. All students in 21 We will work with Queensland will have access to the 1800 QSTUDY We will work with the Australian Government, hotline to call for advice and referrals. Further Monitor responsible agencies Australian Skills and Quality Agency (ASQA), quality Tertiary Education Quality and Standards applications for student hub funding will be to ensure quality is considered through the IET Partnership Fund. Agency (TEQSA), Student Ombudsman, Fair maintained inside Work Australia and Queensland agencies to and outside the ensure we monitor quality issues as they relate to the overall student experience. This includes classroom. 19 We will invest in alumni taking a proactive approach to report non- ‘Friends of Queensland’ events aligned with compliant provider behaviour or unscrupulous Alumni engagement activities key trade missions and other activities will marketing. We will also, through student hubs engagement acknowledge alumni as brand ambassadors. We that recognise the value and provider networks, proactively monitor will work with providers to support alumni-led issues in accommodation, transport, health of international alumni mentoring programs for students and ensure that provision, access to services and other areas as advocates for the Queensland alumni (inbound and outbound) are that may negatively impact student experience included in the Global Alumni Strategy. Alumni Queensland experience. and act accordingly. excellence will be recognised through the annual Queensland IET Excellence Awards.

22 Micro grants of up to The Challenge will encourage solutions ‘by Student $2,500 will be managed students for students’ and is designed to fast Innovation track solutions to complex student challenges. through the Student Challenge These micro grants will encourage innovation Innovation Challenge. and entrepreneurship, while also improving the student experience.

International Education & Training | 21 Strengthening Our Regions

A defining feature of Queensland’s international The Queensland Government recognises the education and training industry is the way importance of Regional Study Organisations (RSOs) the industry’s activities are dispersed across and local government partnerships that support Queensland. In the financial year 2014-2015 around RSOs in Brisbane, Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, 34 per cent of all international student nights Townsville and Cairns. Local partnerships are also in Queensland were outside the state capital of being explored in Moreton Bay, Toowoomba and Whatever we do, we need Brisbane, compared to just 12 per cent of similar Rockhampton. students in New South Wales studying outside “to show that international Sydney, and four per cent in Victoria studying The Queensland Government is committed to outside Melbourne.1 strengthening the state’s regions to offer diversity education and training in courses and lifestyle options for students and This means that all major Queensland student to provide economic and social opportunities for is part of the city, that centres benefit from the cultural and economic regional Queensland. We will achieve this by: diversity that comes with international education students breathe new and training, including the development of a more • Ensuring coordination and collaboration with inclusive, welcoming and multicultural community local government and RSOs. life into the city. in every corner of the state. • Leveraging the linkages between other regional Queensland’s diversity offers some unique services and industries, such as tourism. international education and training opportunities • Building leadership and capacity in all regions. Quote from IET Forum Participant 2016 ” that can be a point of difference for some students. For example, Queensland has major student • Understanding the unique selling proposition centres in tropical and sub-tropical cities, attracting for students studying outside of a capital city. global employers such as Boeing Australia, Virgin Australia, Mitsui, General Electric, Warner Bros, • Providing local access to information and Ernst & Young, and many international banks and support for international students. other global organisations.

In 2015, the economic contribution of student- related export revenue (outside Brisbane) was almost $1 billion. Cities outside the capital also benefit from increased tourism, from both students themselves and their visiting friends and family and by providing other goods and services to the education industry. 1 The opportunity and imperative for Queensland’s international education and training sector, Deloitte Access Economics, May 2016.

22 | International Education & Training Image courtesy of Student One 23 Regional international We will partner together to deliver better 26 A new community of A new Community of Practice (CoP) for all State-wide education clusters will outcomes for Queensland. RSOs will deliver Regional best practice in regional international student centres in Queensland will student cluster local engagement, education pathway alignment best practice provide opportunities for the regions to connect, be supported to adopt international education groups and strategic projects that are relevant to the network learn from each other and to share best practice. a local response to strengths and priority areas of regions. Clusters and training will foster The CoP will focus on approaches to address local regional opportunities. and other local consortia partners may bid for information sharing and issues affecting students, sharing information on assistance through the IET Partnership Fund macro trends and data, and aligning marketing continuous improvement to support local activities. These may include and promotional activities where possible. The welcome desks, welcome ceremonies and across the state. CoP will be made up of representatives from all festivals, student and community integration regions involved in international education. The programs, accommodation/homestay CoP will meet biannually and engage through initiatives, data and research on student needs digital platforms to share ideas, discuss strategy and regional issues, marketing and promotion implementation and track policy issues. activities.

27 A strong and diverse We will: 24 A strong partnership We will work with local governments to Supporting an international program • Support the attraction of students into our Local with local government enhance the role that council and local internationalised schools. government communities play in support of international at the schools level is will help localise our schools education. Councils will also be invited to be critical to the growth partnerships sector across • Increase the number of schools that are international student part of the IET Summit and offshore marketing accredited to enrol international students Queensland and sustainability offering. activities. Councils may apply in partnership and increase the homestay capacity with local partners for projects under the IET of Queensland’s required to support this expansion. Partnership Fund. international education • Ensure that the unique needs for under-18 and training sector. students are catered for in the delivery of the Strategy. 25 We will work with We will grow the participation in edu-tourism to • Make research opportunities in regional IET and tourism support state and regional economic development. Tourism and Events universities more attractive by making state collaboration This will include supporting the development Queensland (TEQ), of edu-tourism products, student ambassador education for school-aged dependents more affordable. education partners and travel campaigns and visiting friends and relative local tourism providers campaigns (including graduation travel). In • Use new and established pathways from collaboration with Queensland’s Visitor Information school to further education to encourage to foster and promote Centres (VICs), we will also deliver benefits for students to continue their education and opportunities for students, providers and the local communities training in Queensland. they serve through the student referral approach. edu-tourism. As direct flights are also a key decision-making • Invest in research to track the outcomes factor for students, we will work with TEQ and of international school students and Queensland’s airports to provide data that supports their pathways to further education in more routes between high-demand locations and Queensland. Queensland’s regions. These objectives are closely aligned to Advancing Tourism 2016-20: Growing Queensland Jobs.

International Education & Training | 23 Connecting the Industry

A new, more collaborative model of planning is a By establishing and solidifying networks and prerequisite to guide the effective delivery of the connections across and between the industry, Strategy across the international education and we will: training industry. This is particularly important given that Queensland’s international education • Foster collaboration to ensure Queensland and training landscape is so complex. Its four retains its competitive edge through a united key sectors — higher education, VET, schools and approach ELICOS — traverse both public and private sector, in more than seven regional locations. • Ensure the continued development and promotion of clear study pathways In addition to the four key sectors, there are • Promote and celebrate successes across other important stakeholders who intersect the industry to foster ongoing innovation with the industry including corporate educators and improvement and trainers, internship service providers, edu- tourism operators, EdTech companies and other • Be in the position to respond quickly to market businesses undertaking niche activities that fill changes and industry challenges the ‘gaps’ in the traditional offering. To meet this challenge, the Strategy establishes an important • Ensure the industry is skilled and able framework for leadership, coordination and to deliver innovative solutions to global partnerships across sectors, Queensland’s regions education, training and research. and nationally.

A Ministerial Champion, advised by an enhanced industry advisory group and a cross-government working group, will drive the Queensland Government’s partnerships with all sectors and regions.

24 | International Education & Training Image courtesy of 28 The IETU within The IETU will engage internally with key 31 Queensland IET The Queensland IET Excellence Awards will International Trade and Investment government agencies, externally across the key Queensland Excellence Awards will recognise industry leaders, community and Education and sectors and industry partners, and offshore IET Excellence business contributors and current and past Queensland will act recognise industry Training Unit with TIQ Business Development Managers. Awards students for their achievements. The awards as the central point of leaders and students for will celebrate individual success, aligned to the (IETU) This approach will ensure that all sectors coordination to deliver are represented in initiatives, that inter- their achievements and goals of the Strategy and will inspire innovation departmental collaboration is fostered and that in the sector. Education providers will continue the IET Strategy. help drive our strategy industry is connected to TIQ globally. A cross- to be recognised for their export excellence government working group will meet three times aspirations. through the Premier of Queensland’s Export per year to track progress of the Strategy and Awards. to address emerging issues and opportunities as they arise. New ways of working including piloting an Industry Innovator in Residence program and a student work placement program, 32 Queensland will The IETU will work as part of the Commonwealth will enable IETU to engage directly with students Connecting with work with Australian – State and Territories Working Group to ensure and the sector in delivering the Strategy. the national alignment of the Strategy implementation, Government counterparts agenda brand and research. IETU will continue to closely to ensure a leveraged monitor visa issues, reputational risk and other approach to branding, market changes and will actively contribute to 29 A new Queensland IETAG national advocacy with peak bodies and other The IETAG will be chaired by the Ministerial student experience and International will advise government Champion and will meet three times per states and territories. Education year with advice being delivered directly to data collection. on the needs of the and Training the Queensland Government and related industry and will support Advisory Group Ministers. The IETAG will be comprised of senior representation from all sectors and will advise (IETAG) the implementation of government on the implementation of the 33 We will work with the This will include engaging with higher the IET Strategy. Strategy and key initiatives. Engage on sub-sectors and service education, VET, ELICOS, schools, edu-tourism sectoral issues operators, executive education providers, providers that support education agents, accommodation providers the sector to ensure and other support industries through informal 30 Leverage the support We recognise the importance of a Ministerial continuous improvement networks. Project-based working groups will be formed to guide initiatives as required. Ministerial and leadership of a Champion for the sector, both locally and and coordination across Champion internationally. We will work to ensure that Ministerial Champion Queensland takes a holistic approach to the industry. for the sector. ministerial engagement across all portfolios to support the sustainable growth of IET.

International Education & Training | 25 Evaluation Framework 34 We will embed We recognise the importance of the Multicultural In order to ensure that the Strategy is working as planned we will measure Community international student Queensland Charter and the Multicultural engagement Recognition Act 2016 in nurturing a welcoming our success against a comprehensive evaluation framework. This includes ‘welcome’ and ongoing and multicultural society. We will work with the monitoring and evaluation of specific initiatives, as well as any community engagement Multicultural Affairs Queensland, not for profits corrective action, if required. into other community and directly with the community to ensure that international students are included in community programs. welcome events and activities. A ‘Welcome to The evaluation will be undertaken by TIQ on an annual basis, in Queensland’ campaign, both digital and face consultation with key stakeholders. It will involve three parts: to face, will be developed in partnership with stakeholders. Further initiatives may be funded through the IET Partnership Fund. 1. Initiatives How much progress has been achieved in the past 12 months?

35 Support relevant Professional development programs will What have we learnt and what can we apply to other areas? If progress Sector capacity professional complement the annual IET Summit and priority building and areas for learning will be informed by the is not according to timeframe, what corrective action needs to be taken development and issue- leadership sector. This approach will support sector-based to ensure the initiatives are on track? based workshops to development programs that encourage shared knowledge and build the capacity of the information dissemination, ideally delivered in partnership with peak bodies and/or RSOs. 2. Stakeholder mapping sector. Has the Strategy met the needs of stakeholders?

36 We will support Improved data and a focused research This will include annual client satisfaction, a biennial student survey Improving data the development agenda, including longitudinal studies to (or surveys) and whole of government feedback. and research show the impact of international education of improved data and government support are a priority. We collection and priority will work with the Australian Government to 3. Policy outcomes and impact research to improve improve data collection and research. We will Are key policy outcomes being met and what is our impact? prepare a research agenda, renewed annually, performance of the in partnership with the sector to encourage international education new research. How can resources be more effectively allocated to achieve better and training sector. outcomes? What has changed in the marketplace and operating environment that requires a new approach?

26 | International Education & Training Implementation The IET industry operates in a dynamic and fast First Year Milestones changing global context. Changes to visa frameworks, 2016 the value of the Australian dollar, global security issues and the Australian political landscape all impact July Launch draft IET Strategy the sustainability of the sector. August State-wide consultation September Brisbane Student Hub opened The first year of Strategy implementation is critical to set us up for success and lay the foundations. The October Best Semester Abroad table below outlines a select number of milestones November IET Implementation Roadshow to be achieved over the next 12 months. This is by no November Regional Community of Practice means an exhaustive list but a representation of key activities to be delivered. 2017 January International Education Partnership Fund Round 1 opens March Student Advisory Panel meets March International Education and Training Advisory Group March Inaugural International Education and Training Summit World Science Festival and super familiarisation tour (key decision makers/ March partners across English language, VET, higher education and schools) Queensland presence at Asia Pacific Association of International Education March Conference Australian New Zealand Agents Workshop, Cairns, including agent April familiarisation tour May Queensland Cup Finals in Chengdu June International Education Partnership Fund Round 2 opens July International Education and Training Advisory Group meeting July 2018 IET Partnership Plan released August Launch of Student Innovation Challenge September International students meet Parliament event Queensland International Business Series and Premier of Queensland’s October Export Awards November International Education and Training Advisory Group meeting November International Education Excellence Awards

International Education & Training | 27 Connect. Be connected. Be Connect. Trade &Investment Queensland tiq.qld.gov.au [email protected] +61 73514 3147 @tradeinvestqld TradeandInvestmentQld Trade &Investment Queensland Study Queensland StudyinQueensland @StudyQld studyqueensland studyqueensland [email protected] +61 73514 3148

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