Having witnessed a couple of racial crime cases in the past and tough immigration stance, Australia faces the risk of losing its reputation of being a hot destination for foreign students, especially from India.
Indian students looking to study and live work in Australia will be affected by Australian visa restrictions.
Australia’s disadvantage in this context could prove advantageous for New Zealand, which has started attracting more international students since last year.
New Zealand has improved its employment record. Besides gaining new admissions, the country is also expecting migration of a larger number of students from India, who are in the middle of their studies or careers in Australia.
Former New Zealand Association for Migration and Investment Inc (NZAMI) Chairman and Pathways to New Zealand’s Managing Director Richard Howard said the firm has been receiving many inquiries from people of Indian origin in Australia keen on migrating to this country.
But he cautioned those keen to migrate or study in New Zealand against falling into the trap of unscrupulous or ill-informed and non-licensed immigration agents.
“In our work, we have become increasingly concerned about the reputation and prestige of the communities involved,” he said.
Mr Howard said he had counselled Indian students who had suffered by poor advice given to them by non-licensed or unreliable immigration or education agents on studies in New Zealand.
“Many of these hardworking and committed students have had their dreams of a future life in New Zealand ruined and have returned to India disappointed.
“This outcome is not what we wish to see and causes great distress with adverse financial and employment impacts for the student, their families and their local communities,” he said.
Mr Howard appealed yo the communities in New Zealand to share collective responsibility to ensure that young people from their homeland were well advised and supported.
“New Zealand maintains its reputation as a friendly and welcoming country,” he said.
