Surge of Chinese students expected in Australia

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Educators in Australia can expect a surge of Chinese students over the next decade, a new survey has found.

An HSBC survey conducted by Nielson found that although only 10 per cent of Chinese respondents are studying abroad today, this is expected to jump to 68 per cent in the next five to 10 years.

The survey of 1000 mainland Chinese respondents showed that of those with overseas education intentions, 73 per cent plan to send their children overseas to study, while 20 per cent plan to study abroad and move with their children.

They voted Australia as the top pick destination for education within Asia, while ranking fourth globally behind the US, UK and Canada.

HSBC Bank Australia head of retail banking and wealth management Graham Heunis said the results show that Australia is front of mind for Chinese students.

"This is good news for the Australian education sector which suffered a 12 per cent drop in international enrolments between 2010 and 2012,'' Mr Heunis said in statement.

He expects an increase in international students will improve Australia's links with the Asian region, as they often stay in Australia for the long term, work in Australian companies, and as a result, increase Australian businesses Asia-relevant capabilities.

"HSBC is also seeing increased interest among Chinese parents with children studying in Australia setting up banking facilities to invest or purchase property here,'' he said.

"For those students and families who return home, it also increases understanding and appreciation of Australian culture in their homeland.''

- AAP