Melbourne was ranked the QS Best Student City Index Australian leader – maintaining its position since 2015 while moving up in the global charts, with growing numbers of students from around the world choosing Victoria as their study destination.

QS Quacquarelli Symonds specialises in the analysis of higher education institutions and conducts the world’s largest survey of prospective international students.

Recently the University of Melbourne was ranked Australia’s top – and 14^th best global – university in the QS World University Rankings.

The Best Student City index highlighted Melbourne’s unmatched educational opportunities, affordability and cultural diversity.

The city has recovered following COVID-19 international closures, with Department of Home Affairs data showing there are more than 140,000 student visa holders currently in Victoria – doubling since borders reopened. China, India, Vietnam, Nepal and Colombia supply most students to Victoria.

International education is Victoria’s biggest service export, generating $8.4 billion in revenue last year and supporting more than 40,000 jobs across the state.

The Victorian Government’s International Education Recovery Plan 2025, allocates $53 million in funding for initiatives including the expansion of Victoria’s Global Education Network to 19 locations.

Acting Minister for Trade and Investment Danny Pearson said: “Melbourne is Australia’s best city, and it’s fantastic that the official rankings say we’re also number one in the country for international students. We welcome international students with open arms – they contribute so much to our community.”

Victorian Chamber endorsement

Victoria benefits from recognising and better facilitating a variety of different skills and qualifications into the state.

The Victorian Chamber encourages employers to include international students in recruitment strategies, utilising their talent and increasing the attractiveness of Victoria as a study destination.

Last year the Chamber committed to Study Melbourne’s Victorian Commitment to Action to improve international student employment outcomes.

The International Education Association of Australia’s (IEAA’s) Guide to Employing International Students and Graduates is designed for employers who wish to recruit international employees but who may be unsure of the options available to them.

The Victorian Chamber also provides tailored migration services to members. For more information, contact our registered migration agent Eddie Zhao on 03 8662 5234 or email ezhao@victorianchamber.com.au