Last year Prime Minister Morrison said the government has “some levers to pull” to get international students enrolling in the regions. Turns out the levers release buckets of money.

Yesterday the PM announced $15 000 pa scholarships for up to 4 700 domestic and international students over four years who study on country VET or university campuses. Plus the internationals could qualify for an extra year of post-study work rights if they stay in the bush.

This strikes the Regional Universities Network as a splendid idea. Chair Helen Bartlett (Federation U) says “financial issues” are a big reason why students from the regions drop out and the visa incentive will appeal to internationals.

Universities Australia’s Catriona Jackson agrees, saying “additional incentives could add to the already strong appeal of pursuing a university degree in regional Australia.”

Curiously, the university lobbies representing the campuses internationals like, in cities, were silent.