The new system for processing overseas student visas would build on Australia's competitive advantage in the international education industry. The more objective and transparent system, commencing from July 1 2001, would be to the advantage of applicants and education providers alike. 

"The changes will give potential students more precise information about visa requirements while ensuring that the quality and integrity of our $3.5 billion education export industry is maintained," said Senator Patterson. 

"Student visa grants increased last year to 120,564, an increase of nine per cent over the previous year, and the growth in applications this year is on track to surpass this record.  

"The new arrangements will build on Australia's competitive advantages in the International Education industry which include very generous work rights and clear pathways to migration for the top overseas students who succeed in obtaining a qualification in demand in Australia. 

"The Department of Immigration and Multicultural Affairs (DIMA) has been a major contributor to the successful growth of the overseas student visa program which brings many benefits, both cultural and economic, to Australia. 

"In recent years, the student visa program has not only grown in size but there have been significant changes in the markets. To ensure that growth in the student program is sustainable, it is necessary to introduce a more flexible and responsive processing system." 

From July 1 this year information for overseas students wishing to come to Australia would be more precisely targeted, based on both the applicant's country of origin and the education sector in which they were proposing to study. This would lead to more simplified processes for applicants and more objective assessment of applications from students in countries with a demonstrated immigration risk in the student program. 

The new system for student visa processing will enhance both the reputation of the student visa program and also the reputation of the Australian Education Industry.