As October draws to a close, I’m buoyed with a sense of cautious optimism. The prerequisite steps that we need to see before international students return to our shores are falling into place with major announcements happening this month on student arrivals and reopening plans.
If we look back at the start of October, Sydney and Melbourne were in lockdown and few international student return plans had federal government approval. Fast forward to the end of October and we now have federally approved pilot plans in place for NSW, South Australia and Victoria, and in just the last few days, Queensland submitted its return plan for Federal Government approval. The ACT has committed to having international students that have had a recognised vaccination return quarantine free for the start of the academic year in 2022 and Tasmania is getting set to reopen its borders as well.
Lockdown has ended for Sydney and Melbourne and 75.5% of people in Australia who are aged 16 or over are double vaccinated. NSW announced that hotel quarantine would no longer be required for fully vaccinated international visitors once borders reopen, and from 1 November, fully-vaccinated Australians can travel overseas without an exemption. A lot can happen in a month, it seems.
I’m also conscious that the rebound will not be instant and I’m continuing to call for the extension of regulatory relief and fee waivers, pushing for a further round of Innovation Grant funding, and pursuing options via the EMDG program to name a few key items.
The other challenge in the coming months will be ensuring that our sector is ‘reopen ready,’ and we are already thinking of the best ways that English Australia can support its members in this transition. Colleges will need to consider a lot in the lead-up to the return of international students and we want to help with the resources and information that you need to see the safe return of your students.
Regulatory news
This month, ASQA released its provider roundtable communique which includes its Corporate Plan for 2021/2022 and its Regulatory Risk Priorities for 2021–22. Online learning and international student delivery (including offshore delivery) are two specific priorities for ASQA for 2021-22. I will be attending the next provider roundtable on 9 November and am more than happy to raise any concerns that members may have.
TEQSA welcomed a new Commissioner, Adrienne Nieuwenhuis, in October and English Australia extends its congratulations to Ms Nieuwenhuis who has extensive higher education regulation and quality assurance experience.
TEQSA has also published a webinar with Fair Work Ombudsman Sandra Parker PSM related to concerns about the underpayment of casual employees working in the higher education sector. While the focus is on higher education, members may find some of the general information useful.
Early in November, I will participate in the quarterly Department of Home Affairs, Education Visa Consultative Committee (EVCC) meeting. I’m following up on member concerns with the application of the ‘small provider’ Assessment Level rating and market trends on visa declines that I’ve been made aware of. I encourage members to contact me if they have any additional concerns that they would like raised with DHA.
Branch meetings
Thank you to everyone who was able to attend our recent branch meetings. I would also like to thank Global Victoria and Study NSW for presenting at the branch meetings and providing insights into their International Student Arrivals Plans.
Our branch meetings provide an invaluable opportunity to both hear from members on their major concerns and to update members on the activities that English Australia is undertaking to support members. If you would like to join our future meetings, please contact your English Australia State/Territory Delegate.
AGM and Board update
October saw English Australia hold its 32nd Annual General Meeting. I’d like to thank the representatives from member colleges who attended the AGM. Following on from the AGM, English Australia’s 2021 Annual Report is now available for members to download.
The 2021-22 Board held their Special Board meeting post the AGM. I would like to congratulate Kerry Sutcliffe on her appointment as Chair of the Board along with Donna Cook and Joanna Kelly as the Deputy Chairs. The Board also welcomed Tim Eckenfels as a new Director and ACT/ NT/ Tas Delegate.
I would also like to thank and acknowledge Cynthia Kralik, who stepped down from the role of Chair of the Board after three successful years. Cynthia’s contribution during her time as Chair and as an English Australia Board member has been outstanding, steering the organisation through the incredible challenge that the COVID-19 pandemic has presented.
Action Research Colloquium
English Australia’s 2021 Action Research in ELICOS Program concluded with a 3-day Colloquium held at the end of October. With the incredible support of Cambridge Assessment English, this year’s program saw 9 participants undertake action research programs focused on ‘Exploring new ways to assess learner progress.’ The challenges of the current environment warrant an enormous congratulations for all the participants in the program for their dedication – well done. I’d also like to thank Professor Anne Burns for again bringing her passion and commitment to this year’s program.
Find out more about the participants and their research projects in the 2021 Action Research Brochure.
Any questions? Please ask
I would like to again say that I am always available should you wish to raise any issues with me. Please do not hesitate to contact me and I will be happy to provide whatever assistance I can.
