PRESS RELEASE

Philippine Embassy, Canberra

1 Moonah Place, Yarralumla, ACT 2600
www.philembassy.org.au    *Tel. No. 02-6273-2535*

18 August 2026, CANBERRA — Philippine Ambassador Antonio A. Morales and Mr. Julian Hill MP, Assistant Minister for Citizenship, Customs and Multicultural Affairs and Assistant Minister for International Education, discussed deepening cooperation in international education, and people-to-people links between the Philippines and Australia.

They discussed opportunities to expand transnational education, including articulation arrangements that would allow Filipino students to undertake part of their studies in the Philippines and complete their qualifications in Australia.

Ambassador Morales highlighted existing partnerships between Philippine and Australian universities and the potential for offshore delivery of Australian education in the Philippines that allow Filipino students to benefit from Australia’s high-quality education system. Assistant Minister Hill also noted the growing interest among Australian education providers in expanding transnational education opportunities in the Philippines. The two also exchanged views on international student mobility and visa arrangements, including the importance of supporting genuine international students and maintaining effective visa administration.

Assistant Minister Hill also acknowledged the significant contribution of Filipinos and Filipino-Australians to Australia’s multicultural society and economy. Ambassador Morales emphasized the Filipino community’s role in bringing the Philippines and Australia closer together and in strengthening their longstanding friendship as both countries celebrate the 80th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2026.

For the period January-May 2026, there are over 21,770 Filipino international students studying in Australia. - END

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