Spending by Chines students fell by over 3% to $3.9 billion last year as Australia’s international education industry shrank to $15 billion.
China represented about 25% of total spending by foreign students. Taking into account tuition fees and living expenses, according to the Government agency, Australian Education International.
Although still the No.1 services export, Australia’s inbound education industry earned $700 million less in 2012 than the previous year. It still remains well below the 2009 peak of $17.6 billion. However experts believe that the inbound education market is near its bottom and poised for a recovery, which will be led by higher education. Mainly due to the fact that it offers a more streamlined visa processing and post study work rights.
