The Victorian Government has placed education at the heart of its relationship with China, with a new agreement set to create fresh opportunities for Victorian students and teachers.
Premier Jacinta Allan met His Excellency Huai Jinpeng, China’s Minister for Education, in Beijing on 15 September to formalise the Victoria-China Education Working Group – a partnership spanning schools, TAFEs and universities.
The Working Group will meet annually to set its agenda across the education system, with priorities drawn from a 2023 Joint Statement. These include two-way teacher and student exchanges, joint vocational programs, sharing of language and culture, and supporting students with disability.
“My top three priorities in China are clear: education, education, education,” Premier Allan said. “I’m honoured to have met with Mr Huai and land this historic agreement on day one of my visit to China. All up, this means more opportunities for teachers and students in the Education State.”
Victoria already has strong links with China. More than 80 sister-school partnerships exist, with over 280 Victorian students having travelled there. In 2024, more than 83,000 students studied Chinese Mandarin in Victorian government schools – making it the most studied foreign language.
International education is also a major driver of the state’s economy. Valued at almost $16 billion annually, it supports 64,000 local jobs. Melbourne is ranked Australia’s top student city and fifth best globally.
Victoria’s public universities and TAFEs currently have 142 partnerships with Chinese institutions. Seven of the state’s 16 institutions are using the government’s Yes to International Students Fund to deliver Victorian education programs within China.
Deputy Premier and Minister for Education Mr Ben Carroll said the initiative would deepen cultural exchange and understanding. “Through the Victoria-China Education Working Group, we can foster deeper mutual understanding and appreciation of each other’s languages and cultures. Victoria looks forward to welcoming more Chinese international students while providing our own students with opportunities to learn about Chinese culture.”
Minister for Skills and TAFE Ms Gayle Tierney said vocational training would also benefit from the partnership. “This partnership will expand opportunities for collaboration, innovation, and student exchange in vocational education, helping to build a strong workforce for the future.”
The government said the new Working Group aligns with its China Strategy, which positions Victoria as the first choice for Chinese students and businesses.
