A Call to Protect Australia's Healthcare Future

As the CEO of a healthcare education institute, I've always been committed to advocating for fair policies that reflect the realities of our sector. However, the recent government decision to cap international students requires urgent attention—especially regarding nursing education. It is a decision that, while perhaps well-intentioned, risks amplifying a problem we cannot afford to ignore: a looming shortage of qualified nurses that could cripple our healthcare system.

When addressing concerns about the need for an international student cap and potential disruptions from exemptions, it is essential to emphasise that strategic exemptions can enhance educational quality without disproportionately affecting the overall balance. Tailored solutions can address specific needs while maintaining fairness. Rigorous criteria and transparency in decision-making processes for exemptions can mitigate concerns about fairness and manageability.

Reinforcing the Case for Exemption: Insights from the Universities Accord

The need to exempt nursing from the international student cap is further underscored by the recent Universities Accord, published on 21 June 2024. The Accord outlined several measures to address the training and qualification of nurses, recognizing the profession's critical role and ongoing shortages as identified by Jobs and Skills Australia.

Key points from the Accord included:

• Recognition of the higher education requirements of nurses and acknowledgement of the current occupation shortage.
• Recommendations for financial support for students undertaking placements in critical industries, including nursing.
• Suggestions to place nursing (and teaching) in the lowest band of student contributions for Commonwealth-supported students, reflecting the lower lifetime earnings of these professions and their significant public contributions.
• Encouragement for universities, through funding support, to develop micro-credentialed short courses to assist in professional development, particularly in nursing.

Following these findings, the Hon Jason Clare MP, Minister for Education, has implemented several measures aligning with these recommendations, such as Commonwealth Practical Payments and adjustments to Nursing HECS fees, along with micro-credential courses for upskilling nurses, teachers, and engineers. These steps reinforce the recognition that nursing is needed and should be supported, not restricted.

Addressing a Growing Crisis

Nursing is not just another discipline; it is the lifeblood of our healthcare system. Unlike many other fields, the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Accreditation Council (ANMAC) has already tightly regulated nursing education. This body enforces strict caps on enrollments to maintain quality and ensure public safety. Adding a layer of restriction through a government-mandated cap could create a catastrophic bottleneck at a time when we need to expand, not restrict, the number of trained professionals entering the workforce.

Our ageing population, increased healthcare needs, and the rippling effects of a global pandemic have put unprecedented strain on our healthcare workforce. Capping their numbers could lead to reduced economic inflows and a contraction in GDP.

This cap risks undermining our long-term economic growth and global competitiveness. A more targeted policy is needed to balance immediate concerns with sustaining Australia's future financial health.

Exempting nursing from the international student cap is not just a matter of policy but of safeguarding our future. Australia's healthcare system relies on a steady influx of skilled nurses to meet growing demands. By advocating for strategic exemptions and fair solutions, we ensure that our sector continues to thrive, our communities remain healthy, and our economy stays strong.

Now is the time to speak up. Now is the time to act.