A learned reader reports Labor MP Julian Hill (Victoria) has delivered a considered speech on education exports in the Reps.

“Australia needs a better mix of marketing effort by governments and providers. Universities’ annual spending on student acquisition costs now exceed $1.5 billion. Given the benefits that accrue to providers, there is a strong case for contributions on a modest per-student basis to an international education marketing and quality assurance fund matched by government support. Fund design and administration could be overseen by the national council,” he suggested.

Good ideas, although Austrade, ASQA and TEQSA might inquire as to what they are – chopped liver?

And then there is the peak industry body established to advise government, the Council for International Education, which perhaps could become the body Mr Hill suggests.