REPORT Launch: International Students Growing NSW

International students are a critical part of the NSW Economy. But do we really have a full appreciation of the value they bring?

At this afternoon reception, Business Sydney in collaboration with Study NSW, launched the Business NSW report, The Economic and Social Contributions of International Students to NSW, with The Hon. Emily Suvaal MLC, Parliamentary Secretary for Trade and Small Business, introduced by Toshi Kawaguchi, Director, Study NSW.

The event brought together government agencies, employers and providers of education and training in recognising the economic and social contribution of international students to NSW. 

International education remains NSW’s second largest export. However, the full contribution of the international education sector to NSW communities and the economy continues to be undervalued. 

The Economic and Social Contributions of International Students to NSW report introduces a new model developed by Economist, Dr Sherman Chan, capturing the multidimensional contribution of international students in both economic and social terms. 

The launch included a panel discussion on the social contribution of international students to NSW. Business NSW's Senior Policy Manager for Skills and Education, Dr Nigel Palmer facilitated the discussion with Dr Paul Honeybone, Manager for Strategy and Urban Analytics with The City of Sydney, Tina Nguyen, Head of Business Development for EzyRemit Worldwide, Wan Hoe Goh, Principal with Tropman & Tropman Architects and Adam Kilburn, CEO of NEAS, endorser of Quality Homestay Service Providers. 

The panel considered the contribution that international students bring to the workplace, particularly for small and medium employers and described opportunities for innovation and engagement through supporting the participation of international students in local businesses.

They also spoke to wider social benefits, including through education, volunteerism, and philanthropy. The session concluded by reflecting on the broader impact of what often become life-long connections forged by international students studying in Australia. 

The vote of thanks was moved by Business NSW's President, Joseph Carrozzi AM.