Victoria Unveils New International Education Strategy to Strengthen Global Leadership

The Victorian Government has launched Study with Victoria, a new international education strategy designed to strengthen the state's position as a leading global education destination. The initiative focuses on improving the international student experience, expanding transnational education opportunities, and ensuring that the economic and social benefits of international education are shared across Victoria.

Backed by $18.6 million over two years in the 2025–26 State Budget, the strategy outlines a long-term vision for supporting international students while reinforcing Victoria's global competitiveness in education.

Building a Global Education Destination

The Study with Victoria strategy aims to position Victoria as one of the world's most attractive destinations for international education by focusing on three core priorities:

• Enhancing the international student experience
• Expanding transnational education opportunities
• Strengthening Victoria's global reputation for education excellence

The initiative recognises international students as valuable contributors who bring diverse perspectives, innovation, and talent that enrich communities while supporting economic growth.

International Education Continues to Drive Victoria's Economy

International education remains Victoria's largest services export and a major contributor to the state's economy.

Victoria's International Education at a Glance (2025)

These figures highlight the significant role international education plays in driving employment, economic development, and cultural diversity across the state.

Support for International Students

The strategy reinforces Victoria's commitment to supporting international students through a range of existing and expanded initiatives, including:

• Study Melbourne Hub
• Free professional development, employability, and networking programmes
• Study Melbourne Inclusion Program
• Global Education Network
• Victorian International Education Awards
• International Student Travel Pass
• Continued advocacy with the Australian Commonwealth Government on international student issues

These initiatives aim to improve student well-being, career readiness, inclusion, and community engagement throughout their academic journey.

Expanding Victorian Education Globally

A key focus of the strategy is growing Victoria's international presence through transnational education. The government will continue investing in the $5 million Yes to International Students Fund, which enables Victorian universities and TAFEs to deliver education programmes internationally, helping expand the global reach of Victorian education while creating new opportunities for institutions and learners worldwide.

Government Investment Supports Long-Term Growth

To deliver the strategy, the Victorian Government has committed $18.6 million over two years as part of the 2025–26 Budget. The investment will strengthen international education initiatives, improve student support services, and help Victorian education providers remain competitive in an evolving global education landscape.

Why This Matters

As global competition for international students intensifies, Victoria's new strategy reflects a proactive approach to strengthening student support, expanding international partnerships, and reinforcing the state's reputation as a world-class education destination. Beyond economic benefits, the initiative recognises the broader value international students bring to innovation, research collaboration, workforce development, and multicultural communities.

Editor's Note

International education is becoming increasingly central to economic growth, talent development, and global collaboration. Victoria's latest strategy signals a shift beyond student recruitment towards building a more inclusive, connected, and future-focused education ecosystem. By investing in student success and expanding the global footprint of its institutions, Victoria is positioning itself to remain competitive in an increasingly dynamic international education market.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the Study with Victoria strategy?

It is the Victorian Government's new international education strategy aimed at strengthening Victoria's global education leadership while improving support for international students.

2. What are the main goals of the strategy?

The strategy focuses on enhancing the student experience, expanding transnational education, and strengthening Victoria's international education reputation.

3. How many international students study in Victoria?

In 2025, Victoria recorded approximately 322,000 international student enrolments from around 170 countries.

4. How important is international education to Victoria's economy?

The sector generated $17.9 billion in export revenue and supported around 69,000 jobs in 2025.

5. What support does Victoria provide to international students?

Students benefit from initiatives such as the Study Melbourne Hub, professional development programmes, inclusion initiatives, travel discounts, networking opportunities, and government advocacy.

6. What is the Yes to International Students Fund?

It is a $5 million initiative supporting Victorian universities and TAFEs to deliver education internationally through transnational education partnerships.

7. How much funding has been allocated to the strategy?

The Victorian Government has committed $18.6 million over two years through the 2025–26 State Budget.