Melbourne: Australian Deputy Prime Minister Julia Gillard on Thursday said the increase in overseas student enrolments amid attacks on foreigners should not be taken for granted.
"Last year our international education sector has been challenged and we have been tested," she was quoted by AAP.
"The good news is the sector has been remarkably resilient and it`s pleasing that to date international student enrolments continued to grow," she said while speaking at an International Education Conference in Sydney today.
Gillard also said there were fears about unscrupulous colleges, the cost and availability of accommodation, and the absence of concession cards.
Gillard said the boost in enrolment of overseas students was a "remarkable result" but the government should not take it for granted.
"We will only be able to continue to grow the education sector if we are honest... about the strengths and the weaknesses, and if we are resolute about fixing any problems," she said.
Bureau Report
