Universities plead for September lifeline to trial international student scheme - Sydney Morning Herald

Sydney's major universities have warned state and federal governments must commit to a pilot scheme for international students from September to protect next year's planned intake and the billions of dollars in revenue for the sector and the state.

"It is absolutely imperative from the university and whole sector's perspective that it does happen," said University of Technology Sydney deputy vice-chancellor Iain Watt.

Nicole Brigg, pro vice-chancellor international at Macquarie University, said it was vital to show prospective students Australia was a safe destination.

A University of Sydney spokeswoman said research from ACIL Allen had shown the state economy risked a loss of $2.6 billion and 12,100 jobs over the decade due to the downturn in international students at Sydney University alone.

University of Western Sydney vice-chancellor Barney Glover is hopeful international students could start returning to Australia from September.Credit:Gene Ramirez.

Other university vice-chancellors said they understood the need for caution about the return of international students to Australia, especially in light of the outbreak in Melbourne.

"The NSW government will continue to work with the federal government on a program to bring international students to Australia when appropriate," he said