The federal government has announced $5m for the Australia-India Institute to “drive closer collaboration” between education institutions. The University of Melbourne based institute runs intern and scholarship programmes, an annual leadership dialogue and is assisting with DFAT’s plan to expand Aus-India connections. Doubtless, worthy but with universities hugely exposed to any downturn in China demand, $5m could help with specific plans to expand demand from Indian students and to create a base for Australian VET in the huge potential training-market there. But then again, the feds probably have this covered – the Department of Education and Training’ Australia-India Education website updates activity, why, the most recent advice is just 11 months old.