In recent years, the delivery of education to international students has become a significant concern, with the Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA) emphasising the need for regulatory compliance and addressing unethical practices.
Under the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act and the National Code, training providers offering Australian VET qualifications to international students have a legal responsibility to adhere to specific standards.
These include refraining from misleading or deceptive conduct during the recruitment process and course provision. Providers are also prohibited from providing false or misleading information or guaranteeing a migration outcome in their marketing activities.
Compliance with Australian Consumer Law is crucial to ensure the accuracy and integrity of marketing and promotion of courses and educational services.
Focus on Unethical Practices of Third-Party Education Agents
ASQA recognises that some unethical practices are perpetuated by third-party education agents recruiting international students. These agents may engage in misleading activities or provide inaccurate information to entice students. Consequently, ASQA aims to address these concerns and hold training providers and education agents accountable for their actions. By focusing on the practices of these agents, ASQA’s regulatory priorities seeks to safeguard the interests of international students and maintain the integrity of the Australian education system.
Engagement and Monitoring Activities
ASQA collaborates with various government entities to support compliance activities and surveillance measures. Through this collaboration, ASQA strives to identify and address any concerns raised regarding the practices of training providers. By actively monitoring the compliance of these providers, ASQA’s regulatory priorities aims to ensure that international students receive the high-quality education they deserve and that providers adhere to the required standards.
Communication with CRICOS Providers
Direct communication has been established with all training providers registered under the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS) to reinforce expectations and actions taken by ASQA. By directly reaching out to these providers, ASQA seeks to reaffirm the importance of compliance and emphasise the consequences of non-compliance. This proactive communication strategy strengthens ASQA’s regulatory framework and ensures providers know their obligations.
Reporting Non-Compliance
ASQA encourages anyone with information or concerns regarding a provider’s non-compliance to report them through the online complaints portal – asqaconnect. This platform allows individuals to submit relevant information and bring attention to potential violations of regulations. By providing a convenient avenue for reporting, ASQA enables stakeholders, including students, staff, and the public, to contribute to the regulatory efforts and help maintain the integrity of the education system.
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