A set of "risk indicators" will establish a monitoring system, granting education providers enhanced access to agent performance data, including student completion and visa rejection rates. This framework will also improve oversight of student attendance, addressing concerns about transfers to both cheaper colleges connected to onshore agencies and potential "ghost colleges." Additionally, stricter standards under the ESOS Act will prevent cross-ownership between education agencies and providers for registration.

Education Minister Jason Clare has announced proactive measures to address both the return of international students and the resurgence of unscrupulous individuals seeking to exploit them and undermine the integrity of the international education system. The government plans to enhance monitoring and compliance in the sector, with further actions against dishonest players to be unveiled soon. Minister Clare O'Neil emphasized that this marks the beginning of a series of announcements aimed at closing loopholes and eliminating fraudulent practices within the system.

Nishidhar Borra, president of AAERI representing professional agencies in India, praised these measures as a positive step forward, addressing the concern of unethical onshore student poaching. Ravi Lochan Singh, owner of major agency Global Reach in India, also welcomed the move, highlighting the need to eliminate incentives for onshore switching to questionable or non-existent colleges.

These actions build on previous steps taken by the government, including addressing the "concurrent visa" loophole, and align with recommendations from the Nixon Review, which also propose stricter measures related to Registered Migration Agents (RMAs), such as background checks, enhanced investigative powers for OMARA (the RMA registration authority), and increased penalties for misconduct.

The recommendation to establish "systemic risk indicators" appears to have been embraced by ministers. They are also considering monitoring non-attendance reporting and revoking CRICOS eligibility for low-level private VET and non-award courses.

Nishidhar Borra from AAERI explained that some legitimate international students, who have invested significant time and money, can be vulnerable upon arrival. They may fall victim to a few unscrupulous onshore agents or other Registered Training Organizations (RTOs) offering incentives like fee discounts, cash-backs, job promises, migration pathways, and freebies.

The recent ministerial announcement specifies the prohibition of agent commissions on student transfers rather than a complete ban on onshore agent commissions.

Yini Reptis of AMET Education welcomed measures that protect students from unethical agents but highlighted the importance of recognizing the quality services provided by onshore agents, especially for high school international students seeking university guidance and admission assistance, as well as working holiday visa holders transitioning to student visas after their WHV stay in Australia.