Limits on Australian student visas will affect tourism-Experts

Australia, 28th July: Australian tourism industry is criticizing limits on Australian immigration likely to be introduced by Australian government shortly.

As per new Australian PM (Prime Minister) Julia Gillard, the government is serious about making cuts in annual intake of immigrants into Australia, which, at present, happens to be 270,000 immigrants annually. She has reiterated to bring down Australia’s immigration by 130,000 annually.

Apart from Gillard, Tony Abbott, Australia’s Opposition Leader has also agreed for putting an annual cap on Australian immigration levels.

However, ATEC (Australian Tourism Export Council) has warned of the possible effects of planned cuts in Australian immigration on the economy of Australia.

The tourism body of Australia says the impact of the curbs on Australian immigration levels is likely to be worst if the number of Australia student visas is reduced.

This is due to the fact that nearly 80 percent of international students on Australian student visas allure a minimum of one tourist from abroad to come to Australia, revealed Matt Hingerty, managing director of ATEC.

And limiting Australian student visas to be issued annually by Australian immigration department will not just affect Australian tourism but several other sectors of nation’s economy. Each year, Australia’s international education sector contributes $26 billion Australian dollars to Australian economy, Mr. Hingerty maintained.

According to a recent report, overseas students make a worthy contribution to Australian economy, adds ATEC. Almost 50 percent of the total annual receipts from the inbound visitors comes from the international students, added Mr. Hingerty.

Australian economy, especially the tourism sector of the nation has been facing severe tough times including global economic slowdown coupled with stiff competition from international tourism spots, shortage of workforce and a high dollar, said Mr. Hingerty.

According to Stephen Weller, deputy Vice Chancellor of JCU (James Cook University), limiting Australian student visas will be a big blow to the university as overseas students comprise a huge percentage of the total students in the university.

So, the volatile condition being faced by Australian tourism is in dire need of not just a solid international student market but increased number of overseas visitors associated with those studying in Australia.