International students aren’t to blame for Australia’s rental crisis. In fact, capping new enrolments could hurt universities, local businesses, and the economy.
Research from the Student Accommodation Council (SAC) shows that only 6% of renters nationwide are international students, mostly in capital cities.
Yet, the government plans to cap international student enrolments at 270,000 starting in January 2025, hoping to reduce rising rents.
The study found that international students make up 7% of renters in Victoria, and 6% in New South Wales and Western Australia.
Of the 6% share, 39% live in student accommodation, further reducing their impact on the general rental market.
Purpose-built student accommodation has grown alongside international student numbers, ensuring there has been little to no overflow into the general market. Between 2015 and 2024, bed numbers in these facilities grew by 74%, mainly in capital cities.
These properties exclusively for students help ease pressure on the …