iVisa Consulting

In the last year our international education sector has been challenged and tested. The good news is the sector has been remarkably resilient. It is pleasing that to date international student enrolments have continued to grow. The Australian Government is absolutely determined to make sure Australia’s international education and training sector continues to be successful and sustainable. It’s been a tough year but we are determined to work with you to make sure international education in Australia has the brightest possible future. DEEWR Media release, 15 October 2009

71.5 million dollars further infrastructure boost for Australian universities
The Minister for Education, Julia Gillard, announced that twenty-one Australian universities will share in 71.5 million to improve teaching and research facilities for students. The projects of up to 5 million dollars will improve vital teaching and learning facilities and allow for the expansion of curriculum in important subject areas. DEEWR Media release, 15 October 2009

The Minister for Education, Julia Gillard, welcomed the release of an issues paper as part of the Baird Review of the legislation that governs international students in Australia. The comprehensive issues paper for the review of the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act 2000, identifies key areas impacting on education quality and experiences for international students studying in Australia. DEEWR Media release, 23 September 2009

Rehearsals are underway for Australia’s first Indigenous opera, starring a cast of Indigenous singers from around the country. Two years ago Deborah Cheetham began her search for Indigenous opera singers, in collaboration with the Wilin Centre at the Victorian College of the Arts. She now has a cast of 15 Indigenous singers. The opera is called ‘Pecan Summer’ and it will premiere in Melbourne in October next year. ABC News, 18 September 2009.