The Australian Government remains committed to a high quality, resilient international education sector with sustainable, modest growth.
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The Government has announced a National Planning Level of 295,000 for 2026. This is 25,000 places more than 2025, to support government’s commitment to managed growth and a sustainable international education sector.
A Ministerial Direction will continue to be used in 2026 across both the higher education and VET sectors to support a managed system for international students.
Importantly, no active provider will receive a 2026 allocation lower than their 2025 allocation.
Indicative allocations for 2026 to support implementation of a new Ministerial Direction have been finalised for VET providers.
Further information on the approach to 2026 VET allocations and individual providers’ indicative allocations are available at:
Indicative allocations for VET new overseas student commencements 2026
The new Ministerial Direction will ensure equitable, well managed and orderly processing of visa applications that supports the sector, while achieving Government’s wider international education objectives.
This includes recognising the unique circumstances of some cohorts of students, as defined by the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations and Department of Education.