SA:International education grows in SA

AAP General News (Australia)
12-29-2010
SA:International education grows in SA

ADELAIDE, Dec 29 AAP - International education has become South Australia's second
largest export after wine.

Australian Bureau of Statistics figures show international education has leap-frogged
iron and copper ore in annual export earnings and is now valued at $1.052 billion, SA
Premier Mike Rann says.

"Adelaide has earned a reputation for providing world-class education opportunities
and we want to continue to be seen as the most supportive and welcoming state for international
students to live and study here," Mr Rann said in a statement.

Mr Rann said SA's national market share was 5.6 per cent compared to 5.4 per cent at
the same time last year but there were challenges ahead.

"We face a high Aussie dollar, increased global competition and changes to the commonwealth's
Visa policy, all of which have made it more difficult for some students to come and study
in Australia."

Changes to the skilled migration list are also limiting opportunities for students
to stay and work in Australia after they've graduated, he said.

"While the market is slowing due to external pressures, South Australia continues to
outperform much of the country, and we will continue to promote our education sector in
international markets," he said.

AAP lk/jlw

KEYWORD: EDUCATION SA

� 2010 AAP Information Services Pty Limited (AAP) or its Licensors.