Australia has announced sweeping reforms to its international education and migration framework, positioning the country as a premier destination for high-achieving global students — including the rapidly growing Indian cohort.

The announcement comes as concerns among some Indian families have sharpened following isolated racism-linked rallies and heightened misinformation on social media. Addressing these anxieties directly, Julian Hill, Australia’s Assistant Minister for International Education, said the perception of hostility does not reflect reality.

“Australia is the safest country in the world and one of the most successful multicultural societies,” he said. “Social media often gives a loud microphone to a negative minority — but they do not represent Australia.”

Indians now constitute one of Australia’s fastest-growing skilled migrant communities, with Hindus and Sikhs accounting for nearly 4% of the country’s population. Melbourne — home to almost 40% of the Indian diaspora — has evolved into a cultural hub, hosting city-wide Diwali festivities and the world’s largest Indian film festival outside India.

While the United States has traditionally been the preferred destination for Indian students, Hill signalled that Australia is differentiating itself on two pillars: safety and premium education.

“Parents want safety first — I would want the same for my daughter abroad,” he said. “Quality is the second factor. We are not a cheap country — we are a quality destination.” Students can work up to 24 hours a week, but must demonstrate sufficient funds to study, he added.

Australia’s education ecosystem continues to rank globally, with nine universities among the world’s top 100. Hill said robust research output, industry-linked learning, and strong employability outcomes underpin the country’s value proposition.

South India — particularly Telangana — is now a strategic focus in Australia’s skill and research partnerships. Hill described the region as a “rising hub for innovation, talent and high-quality research.”

Migration rules have tightened in recent years, shifting the student narrative. While earlier cohorts viewed study visas as a route to permanent residency, a growing share now seek global exposure before returning to India.

“There is nothing wrong in seeking migration,” Hill said. “But students who do not qualify for skilled visas must return. Our goal is to ensure students come to study — not purely to migrate.”

The minister also warned against fraudulent application practices, including fake financial documents and manipulated English test scores. “Genuine students have nothing to worry,” he said.

Australia is encouraging diversification beyond IT, urging students to explore engineering, health sciences, business, and research-led pathways — areas where demand is rising.

A flagship initiative — the MATES programme — will grant up to 3,000 visas annually to high-performing graduates from top Indian institutions in fields such as science, IT and technology. Successful applicants will be allowed to work in Australia for two to three years.

“This programme will become a strong bridge between India and Australia,” Hill said, calling it a long-term talent corridor designed to benefit both nations.