Queensland’s $6.85B Education Sector Takes Centre Stage in Asia

Minister Ros Bates Leads 38-Institution Delegation to Taiwan and Japan

In a strategic effort to expand its global influence in education, research, and innovation, Queensland has launched one of its largest-ever International Education and Training (IET) and Research and Innovation (R&I) trade missions. Led by Minister for Finance, Trade, Employment and Training, Ros Bates, the delegation comprises 38 prominent institutions and companies from across the state, reflecting a unified push to strengthen Queensland’s international partnerships.

The mission includes high-level engagements in Taiwan and Japan, culminating in a flagship showcase at World Expo 2025 in Osaka. This initiative is closely aligned with the Queensland–Japan Trade and Investment Strategy 2025–2028, which sets out practical steps to deepen collaboration in education, research, and commercialisation. As part of the programme, Minister Bates will host a major Queensland reception at the Australia Pavilion, engaging with Japanese officials, alumni, and education leaders to reinforce bilateral ties.

Furthermore, the mission underscores Queensland’s commitment to global engagement by enhancing research partnerships, increasing student mobility, and promoting the Study Queensland brand throughout Asia. It also marks Minister Bates’ second trade mission to Japan, following earlier visits to India, Korea, China, Hong Kong, and Singapore, thereby reinforcing Queensland’s sustained outreach across key Asian markets.

International education continues to be Queensland’s largest services export, contributing $6.85 billion to the economy and supporting approximately 30,000 jobs. In 2024 alone, the state welcomed over 157,000 international students from 160 countries, a testament to its growing reputation as a trusted destination for academic excellence and innovation. This mission reaffirms Queensland’s position as a globally connected leader in education, research, and economic opportunity.

Editor’s Note:

Queensland’s recent launch of its largest-ever International Education and Training (IET) and Research and Innovation (R&I) trade mission marks a major step forward in strengthening the state’s global connections. Led by Minister Ros Bates, the delegation of 38 institutions and companies is actively engaging with partners in Taiwan and Japan, with a key showcase planned for the World Expo 2025 in Osaka. This mission reflects Queensland’s clear commitment to promoting its education and research strengths on the world stage. By aligning with the Queensland–Japan Trade and Investment Strategy 2025–2028, the initiative supports long-term goals of increasing student mobility, expanding research partnerships, and attracting international talent. With international education contributing $6.85 billion to the economy and supporting around 30,000 jobs, the sector remains vital to Queensland’s growth. Welcoming over 157,000 students from 160 countries in 2024 alone, the state continues to build its reputation as a trusted and forward-looking destination for learning and innovation.

Skoobuzz asserts that such proactive international engagement not only strengthens the state’s academic and economic ties but also positions Queensland as a forward-thinking hub for innovation, collaboration, and global talent.