12 February 2026
HON JULIAN HILL MP, ASSISTANT MINISTER FOR INTERNATIONAL EDUCATION VISITS EXPERIENCE GOLD COAST
Experience Gold Coast welcomed the Hon Julian Hill MP, Assistant Minister for International Education, to the office for a constructive discussion on the future of international education and the policy settings shaping the sector.
Our CEO John Warn welcomed the Assistant Minister and reinforced the importance of international students as a critical cohort for the Gold Coast – Australia’s fastest-growing city. He highlighted our strong commitment to ongoing collaboration with the Federal Government to support a resilient, globally competitive education ecosystem.
Our Executive Director of Education, Matt Boyd, shared recent data insights showing Gold Coast international student enrolments sitting approximately 10 per cent above pre-COVID peak levels (2019). However, commencements have declined, down 12 per cent on 2019 and 25 per cent year-on-year – a sharper contraction than both Queensland and national trends. This divergence points not to a lack of demand, but to a conversion challenge, one that regional destinations are experiencing most acutely under current policy settings.
The Assistant Minister reaffirmed that it's not the Government’s intention to curtail international student numbers, with discussions centred on practical, evidence-based policy opportunities. These included support for short-term and non-award programs, region-specific levers for regional universities, greater policy transparency and stability, housing and social licence considerations, and the role of Transnational Education and study tours as complementary growth pathways.
Experience Gold Coast thanks the Assistant Minister for his engagement and continued collaboration to ensure international education policy supports diversity, regional growth and Australia’s long-term global competitiveness.
GOLD COAST CAREERS FESTIVAL 2026 – REGISTRATIONS ARE NOW OPEN
We’re excited to share that the Gold Coast Careers Festival is returning on 20–21 May 2026 at the Gold Coast Sports & Leisure Centre in Carrara. The festival brings together students, jobseekers, parents and career changers from across the region to explore future pathways, connect with education and training providers, and discover opportunities with local employers.
Attendees will also have the opportunity to hear from industry experts and access career advice, CV checks, seminars, workshops and interactive demonstrations all in one place. The Gold Coast Careers Festival is an unmissable event for those planning their next step after school, thinking about further study or looking to advance their career. This free two-day event is one of Queensland’s largest career-focused experiences.
Registrations are now open on the Experience Gold Coast website.
SAVE THE DATE: EDUCATION AND INDUSTRY PARTNERS NETWORKING EVENT
We’re excited to announce the next Education Industry Partners Event will be held on Thursday 19 March, bringing our education team together with our valued education industry partners. This event will be a chance to connect, share insights, and strengthen collaboration across the Gold Coast education ecosystem. More details will be shared soon via email.
REQUEST TO UPDATE STAFF MOVEMENTS AND CONTACT DETAILS
Experience Gold Coast is kindly requesting our partners to advise us of any staff movements, role changes, or new team members within your organisation. Please email our Industry Partnership Specialist – Education, Gus Cominese, with any updated or amended contact details so we can keep our records current and ensure smooth communication.
CONNECTING EDUCATION AND BUSINESS AT THE SOUTHPORT CHAMBER NETWORKING EVENT
This month, our Education team had the pleasure of attending the first networking event of the Southport Chamber of Commerce of 2026. It was a great opportunity to showcase the work we do at Experience Gold Coast Education, Careers & Employability, where we focus on connecting students and graduates with local businesses across the Gold Coast. The Chamber plays a key role in assisting us to spread the message and, importantly, to build confidence among employers to engage and hire international students, highlighting the value they bring to the local workforce.
EGC looks forward to continuing these conversations and strengthening collaboration across our business and education ecosystem.
GOLD COAST IN FOCUS: LATAM EDUCATION WEBINAR HIGHLIGHTS
On 30 January, Paula Lopes, Gus Cominese, and Boyd Shacklock delivered a webinar to Latin American education agents, counsellors, and school representatives, highlighting why the Gold Coast is Australia’s best study destination. The session covered the city’s growth and transformation, updated education pathways across ELICOS, VET, TAFE, schools and higher education, key student lifestyle benefits, and the latest data and insights on international students on the Gold Coast. The webinar attracted 137 registrations, with around 50 attendees live, and all registrants received a follow-up sales toolkit to support promoting the Gold Coast to international students.
MARKET ACCELERATOR PROGRAM - TRADE AND INVESTMENT QUEENSLAND
Trade Investment Queensland (TIQ) has just launched a new Market Accelerator Program grant, with a dedicated category for eligible IET providers. CRICOS-registered independent (non-government) schools, VET and ELICOS providers headquartered in Queensland can apply for up to $30,000 (matched funding required) to support recruitment from new source markets. This is a competitive grant, and strong, well-documented applications are essential.
Applications close 4 March.
LAST CHANCE FOR KICKSTART APPLICATIONS - CLOSING SOON
Kickstart is almost here, and enrolments are closing very soon for our first session starting on 27 February! This program is designed to help participants gain clarity, direction and confidence as they take their next steps, and with limited places available, now is the time to secure your spot. Make sure you act quickly and register as soon as possible via the link below to avoid missing out on the opportunity to grow professionally and personally.
Session 1 Details: Kickstart! Welcome and Program Navigation - for participants and managers
Date: Friday 27 February, 9am – 12pm
Venue: Panorama Room, HOTA
DISCOUNTED STUDENT TICKETS FOR NBL GAME ON THE GOLD COAST
Student tickets with exclusive discounts are now available for an exciting NBL clash on the Gold Coast. Catch the Adelaide 36ers take on the New Zealand Breakers at the Gold Coast Convention Centre on 22 February 2026, 3:30. This is the perfect chance for students to enjoy top-level basketball, great atmosphere, and a live game experience—at a student-friendly price. Don’t miss out!
NOMINATE NOW FOR GOLD COAST AUSTRALIAN OF THE YEAR
Do you know an outstanding citizen who inspires others and makes a difference? A local role model creating positive change in our community? Nominations are now open for the 2026 Gold Coast Australian of the Year Awards. City of Gold Coast wishes to recognise those helping to build a stronger, more connected community. Those whose challenges and triumphs reflect their remarkable achievements - who go above and beyond in their work or service, and who are champions in their own way, making a lasting impact on those around them.
Nominations close Monday 23 March 2026.
CONGRATULATIONS TO RACHEL CUTAJAR ON HER APPOINTMENT AS THE PRINCIPAL OF HELENSVALE
Congratulations to Rachel Cutajar on her appointment as the Principal of Helensvale State High School. The new role offers well-deserved recognition of Rachel’s leadership, professionalism, and strong track record of results - highlighted in a full-page feature by the Gold Coast Bulletin.
Rachel has also been a valued supporter of EGC’s international initiatives, contributing to the Gold Coast’s education profile through partner engagement and a consistent focus on delivering high quality experiences for international stakeholders. We look forward to continuing to work with Rachel in her new role, alongside our broader school community partners across the Gold Coast.
GRIFFITH RECEIVES SIGNIFICANT INCREASE IN GOVERNMENT FUNDING
New analysis by Australia’s leading higher education policy expert, Professor Andrew Norton of Monash University highlights major shifts in Federal Government funding allocations for higher education courses in 2025–26. A standout outcome is that Griffith University received the largest increase in Commonwealth funding nationally for 2025–26, signalling strong capacity to deliver more places and support the region’s skills pipeline. With the Griffith campus deeply embedded in our Gold Coast community, these funding settings matter because they influence course availability, workforce readiness, and long term capability for our city’s key industries.
SUPPORTING THE NEXT GENERATION OF TOURISM LEADERS
Queensland Tourism Futures, delivered by the Queensland Tourism Industry Council (QTIC), is a flagship mentoring program supporting aspiring and early-career tourism professionals across the state, including students preparing to enter the industry. First launched in 2011 as the Young Professionals Mentoring Program, it was designed to build confidence, strengthen industry connections, and help emerging leaders navigate Queensland’s diverse visitor economy.
Running from April to October, the program offers flexible mentoring sessions held in person, online, or by phone, supported by a comprehensive guidebook. Mentees are carefully matched with experienced industry mentors based on their goals and background, ensuring tailored guidance and meaningful career development.
Students in their final year of study are eligible to apply if they are enrolled in a tourism-related qualification with a QTIC member education provider. The program continues to play a vital role in developing future tourism leaders and strengthening Queensland’s tourism workforce.
MAYOR’S STUDENT AMBASSADOR PROGRAM 2026 – FINAL MONTH TO APPLY
Applications for the 2026 Mayor’s Student Ambassador Program are still open, with just under a month until they close at 9:00am on Monday 9 March. The Mayor’s Student Ambassador Program is a unique opportunity for students to gain a true behind-the-scenes experience of the Gold Coast. This is a backstage pass to the city, offering participants the chance to develop real-world skills, build valuable professional networks and friendships, and take part in unforgettable experiences that showcase the very best the Gold Coast has to offer.
This prestigious program is ideal for students who are passionate about their city, eager to grow personally and professionally, and keen to represent the diverse student community of the Gold Coast. Students are encouraged to apply early and not miss out on this incredible opportunity.
CREATING MEMORABLE EXPERIENCES FOR GOLD COAST STUDENTS
22 students recently joined the Gold Coast Student Hub for an exciting excursion to Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary. For most, it was their first time visiting the sanctuary, making the experience even more special. Students from a range of educational institutions across the Gold Coast took part, with the majority being international students eager to explore an iconic Australian attraction. Participants enjoyed getting up close and personal with Australia’s most iconic wildlife, snapping unforgettable photo, before taking on the thrilling Treetop Challenge. All of this was available for a special Student Hub rate of just $49, making it an affordable and memorable day out.
Download the monthly Student Hub Activity program to see what’s on.
PLEASE DOWNLOAD OUR FLYER
QUICK SNIPPETS
- Confused about international student work rights? This short, practical seminar explains the new Workplace Justice Visa, student work rights, and how international students can report exploitation and leave unsafe jobs without fear of visa cancellation. Read more.
- Australia’s international students are often the centre of debates about migration and housing, but the latest data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics shows singling out international students oversimplifies much broader structural challenges. Read more.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY
Experience Gold Coast acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we are situated, the Kombumerri families of the Yugambeh Language Region.
We pay our respects to their Elders past, present and emerging, and recognise their continuing connections to the lands, waters and their extended communities throughout Southeast Queensland.