Victorian TAFEs see mixed fortunes in 2025 international student revenue
Victoria’s TAFE sector has seen uneven results in international student revenue for 2025. While some institutes reported strong growth, others faced sharp declines. The figures come as the Federal Government tightens rules for private education providers. The latest annual reports reveal a split in performance across Victorian TAFEs. Melbourne Polytechnic led with a 26% rise in international fee-for-service earnings, reaching $16 million. Box Hill Institute recorded the biggest percentage jump, soaring 76% to $7.6 million.
Chisholm Institute also saw growth, with revenue climbing 56% to $3.1 million. Bendigo Kangan Institute remained the top earner in offshore revenue at $8.1 million, though this marked a drop from $9.7 million in 2024.
However, not all institutes fared well. Gordon Institute of TAFE suffered the steepest decline, with onshore international revenue plunging 48%. Holmesglen and William Angliss Institute also struggled, falling 16% and 17% respectively.
The Federal Government recently announced a 12-month freeze on new CRICOS applications for private VET and ELICOS providers. Public TAFEs, including those in Victoria, remain unaffected by the suspension. The 2025 results highlight a divided landscape for Victoria’s TAFEs in international education. Some institutes expanded revenue significantly, while others faced notable losses. The Federal Government’s suspension on private providers adds further uncertainty to the sector’s outlook.
