Peak industry lobby ACCI has backed international education,  calling it “one of Australia’s largest export industries, enhancing the connections between Australia and the rest of the world as well as making a welcome contribution to the workforce through limited work rights.”

The Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry presents the industry as a $32bn benefit and dismisses arguments that students strain infrastructure.

“Suggesting that there should be limits on international student numbers while we play infrastructure catch-up is like asking manufacturers and farmers to reduce their exports because it places too much pressure on ports and roads. Overcoming congestion is about good and continuous planning, not restricting job and revenue-generating industries in ways that result in them operating below their potential.”