International education

The world-class Australian education sector is widely considered a vital resource to Australian society and has also become a $20 billion export industry that attracts international students from far and wide.

The Education Services for Overseas Students Act 2000 (the ESOS Act) is the legislation that covers the provision of education and training to overseas students who come to Australia to study on a student visa. Under the ESOS Act, providers registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS) are responsible for the actions of their agents in relation to:

  • Providing marketing and student information; and
  • Recruiting and placing of students.

Objective of the ESOS Act is to protect and enhance Australians reputation for quality education and training services.

  • Making sure that the education and training of overseas students meets national standards.
  • Making sure that student welfare services meet national standards. Making sure the education providers in the industry have integrity and act ethically.

The National Code of Practice 2018

The National Code of Practice (or National Code) is a set of standards covering the conduct of educational institutions delivering services to overseas students. The National Code places clear responsibilities on educational institutions and third parties acting on their behalf (agents).

See The National Code 2018 training for more information