Australian MP Julian Hill defended the Australian government’s recent ban on the transfer of commissions for onshore agents during agency events. While defending the government’s move, Hill acknowledged at an event that, in his opinion, some students and providers lack genuineness, which is a cause for worry.
At the close of 2023, we originally announced the decision on proposed changes. Moreover, Hill acknowledged the challenges faced by other agents and assured them of opportunities to voice their concerns on the matter. He emphasised that the proposed policy changes are not merely reactive but are addressing concerns at the lower end of the private market.
Hill acknowledged that the potential dilemma could impact private and reputable businesses, including those with a history of quality service. He accepted that some agents might face a difficult choice, and the actions of unscrupulous actors in the education industry could threaten the existence of reputable agents.
The International Student Education Agents Association (ISEAA), instrumental in organising the Sydney event, expressed substantial concerns about the proposed changes. According to ISEAA, the changes can affect both onshore and offshore agents. While the suggestion by Hill found acceptance within ISEAA, agents displayed diverse views on the matter, with some supporting and others opposing the changes. In addition, Hill swiftly attributed the general attitude and rhetoric towards international students to the previous administration, highlighting a broader context for the government’s stance. The entire scenario remains complex, with agents dealing with the profound potential impact these changes could have on their businesses. He further mentioned the instance in which the previous governments and prime minister blamed international students in their press conferences.
