Our international education and training sector is relatively small but has significant growth potential. The Northern Territory has international students studying in schools, vocational education and training, English language training, and in higher education at undergraduate, master and doctorate level. Global competition is strong so it is important that we develop and sustain our unique value proposition.

To grow international student numbers, government will work with education providers, businesses and multicultural organisations to increase the range and quality of education offerings and the Territory experience for students. Significant opportunities exist to attract higher education and school study tour groups and to provide work experience opportunities for students.

International education, research and training are also critical in growing relationships to support the Northern Territory’s diplomatic, trade and investment efforts. 

International students strengthen cultural, social and economic partnerships, and bring the world to Territorians. International students contribute to creating vibrant economic, social and cultural precincts. International students who remain in the Northern Territory after completing their studies add diversity and skills to our workforce.

The actions identified recognise that the Territory’s offerings in international education and training are highly dependent on attracting researchers and academics of the highest quality, with facilities that are integrated with the broader community, offering students a high level of amenity and a unique experience.

High level action	Measure	Lead / partners	Lever
Develop an international education and training strategic plan with a target to achieve 10,000 students by 2022 across higher education, vocational education and training (VET), schools and English language training	Plan delivered 10,000 international students by 2022	Education providers NT Govt (NTG)
International students experience life as Territorians	Collaboration between education providers, NTG, community and business to widen student experiences outside the classroom, measured through student satisfaction surveys	Education providers NTG
Locate Charles Darwin University faculties, other education providers and student accommodation in the Darwin Central Business District (CBD)	Innovative use of Darwin CBD buildings to provide learning spaces and student accommodation Numbers of students studying and / or living in the Darwin CBD	Charles Darwin University (CDU) NTG
Darwin student hub opened in the CBD	Hub opened	NTG
Provide ‘Study in Australia’s Northern Territory‘ scholarships for international students to study in the NT	Number of scholarships jointly funded with education provider	NTG Education providers
Attract top academics to improve Charles Darwin University’s rankings	Attraction and retention of top academics CDU’s world rankings increase Increase in research funding	CDU Menzies
Grow edutourism across the NT, using regional icons	Increase in edutourism student numbers	Education providers Tourism industry Land councils Traditional Owners NTG
Deliver a Homestay program for international students, focusing on high school and edutourism students	Number of Territorians hosting international students	Education providers Territorians
Deliver an NT alumni program in priority countries	Number of alumni program participants in priority countries	NTG Education providers
Showcasing the Territory to the world - increase joint marketing of the Northern Territory as a study destination	Number of joint marketing campaigns	Education providers NTG