In this episode of the Koala News Global Horizons podcast, Rob Malicki and Dirk Mulder discuss the economic and policy backdrop shaping international education right now.

They unpack growing recession concerns, the role international education plays in local and national economies, and the gap between the public narrative around the sector and what the data may actually be telling us. They also look at the government’s delayed response to the international education inquiry, and a more positive initiative out of Victoria that connects international students with community through the AFL.

They’re then joined by Nico Chu from Sinorbis, who brings a practical perspective on what has changed in international student recruitment over the past few years. Nico talks about a market that is not simply shrinking, but becoming more competitive, more price-sensitive and more demanding. He also shares insights from recent research on student communication, including why speed matters, why fragmented communication causes real frustration, and why institutions can no longer rely on the old playbook if they want to convert student interest into enrolments.

Highlights include:

• recession concerns and what a contraction in international education could mean economically
• the difference between policy, perception and sector reality
• the government’s response to the long-running international education inquiry
• a Victorian initiative using AFL to build student inclusion and connection
• Nico Chu’s take on competition, conversion and the changing expectations of prospective students

Global Horizons is a production of The Global Society, Australia’s Learning Abroad support company. Our editor is Len Zamora and our distribution specialist is Gelo Ablao. Rob Malicki is the executive editor and host. The podcast wouldn’t be possible without The Koala News, Australia’s international education news website.

Global Horizons is the OFFICIAL podcast of the AIEC... a real privilege for us since it is the "do not miss" event of the year. Check out the conference website at ⁠aiec.idp.com

This episode is supported by Choosing Your Uni, Australia's unique, AI-powered platform that helps domestic and international students to find the right institution for them, and that helps Australian institutions to access new markets. For guest suggestions and feedback, email podcast@globalsociety.com.au