The Tasmanian Chamber of Commerce and Industry welcomes the Albanese Government’s decision to extend post-study work rights for international graduates of the University of Tasmania who live in Hobart.
TCCI CEO Michael Bailey said the change was a win for the state’s economy and for Tasmanian businesses struggling to fill critical workforce shortages.
“This decision is about fairness for Tasmania and opportunity for our future,” Mr Bailey said.
“International students already play a vital role in our community, working in our hospitals, aged care facilities, hospitality venues, engineering firms and across essential services. Giving them the ability to stay longer strengthens our workforce pipeline and helps businesses grow.”
Mr Bailey said the extension of graduate visas in southern Tasmania would support the University of Tasmania’s ability to compete with other regions and ensure Tasmania continues to attract and retain skilled graduates.
“From health and aged care through to renewable energy, infrastructure and advanced manufacturing, Tasmania needs more people with the skills to deliver,” he said.
“This change makes Tasmania a more attractive place to study, live and work, and it will give local businesses greater confidence that the skills they need are being trained and retained right here.”
Mr Bailey also noted the importance of international education as an export sector for the state.
“International education contributes nearly half a billion dollars to Tasmania’s economy every year,” he said. “It is not only a major service export, but a key driver of cultural diversity, innovation and community growth.”
“We are grateful that the Federal Government has listened to business and education advocates on this issue. This change will make a real difference to Tasmania’s economic future.”
TCCI CEO Michael Bailey said the change was a win for the state’s economy and for Tasmanian businesses struggling to fill critical workforce shortages.
“This decision is about fairness for Tasmania and opportunity for our future,” Mr Bailey said.
“International students already play a vital role in our community, working in our hospitals, aged care facilities, hospitality venues, engineering firms and across essential services. Giving them the ability to stay longer strengthens our workforce pipeline and helps businesses grow.”
Mr Bailey said the extension of graduate visas in southern Tasmania would support the University of Tasmania’s ability to compete with other regions and ensure Tasmania continues to attract and retain skilled graduates.
“From health and aged care through to renewable energy, infrastructure and advanced manufacturing, Tasmania needs more people with the skills to deliver,” he said.
“This change makes Tasmania a more attractive place to study, live and work, and it will give local businesses greater confidence that the skills they need are being trained and retained right here.”
Mr Bailey also noted the importance of international education as an export sector for the state.
“International education contributes nearly half a billion dollars to Tasmania’s economy every year,” he said. “It is not only a major service export, but a key driver of cultural diversity, innovation and community growth.”
“We are grateful that the Federal Government has listened to business and education advocates on this issue. This change will make a real difference to Tasmania’s economic future.”