Curtin University welcomes regional classification for Perth

A decision that will attract more international students to Perth has been applauded by Curtin University’s Vice Chancellor.

Curtin University Vice Chancellor Professor Deborah Terry said the decision to add Perth to the list of locations migrants can move to on a regional visa is an important step forward to benefit international students.

“The State and Federal governments came together to announce Perth once again will be classified as a ‘region’, making Western Australia a more attractive destination for international students,” Professor Terry said.

“This is wonderful news for all WA universities, including Curtin, as the changes to the visa and migration allow international students to access incentives to undertake their studies here. International students will now be eligible for an additional year in Australia on a post-study work visa which will benefit students work experience, income and post-study financial stability.

“Curtin is a global university and this decision will have the direct effect of allowing more international students access to our world-class facilities. Perth also provides the ideal environment for international students.”

It has less congestion and pollution than many cities and is blessed with easily accessible beaches and natural attractions along with a thriving cultural and entertainment scene.

There has also recently been considerable investment in new purpose built student accommodation by Curtin University and other providers in the Perth area.

Students can also take advantage of direct flights from Perth to London and Japan, while trial flights to Shanghai will begin early next year and plans for flights direct to India are also underway.

Additional opportunities for international students in Perth include:

•  an extra five points on the points test – to meet the Department of Home Affairs’ minimum threshold for points tested visas – for studying in a regional area;
•  access to an additional year of post-study work for international higher education and post-graduate students. Students will have the ability to gain an additional year of work experience and eligibility for skills assessments required to apply for skilled visas, including State-nominated visas; and
• the opportunity to apply for scholarships, which provide up to $15,000 per student per year to support study and living expenses associated with studying a Certificate IV to Doctoral level qualification at a regional campus.

Curtin University is Western Australia’s largest university, with more than 56,000 students. Of these, about 26 per cent are international students, with half of these studying at the University’s offshore campuses. The University’s main campus is in Perth. Curtin also has a major regional campus in Kalgoorlie in addition to four global campuses in Malaysia, Singapore, Dubai and Mauritius.

Curtin is ranked in the top one per cent of universities worldwide, with the University placed 9th in Australia according to the Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU) 2019.

The University has built a reputation around innovation and an entrepreneurial spirit, being at the forefront of many high-profile research projects in astronomy, biosciences, economics, mining and information technology. It is also recognised globally for its strong connections with industry, and for its commitment to preparing students for the jobs of the future.