A proposed quarantine hub based at Parafield Airport allowing international students to return to South Australia has been approved by the federal government.
International students will be able to complete two weeks’ quarantine upon arrival at the hub.
South Australia Health approved the plan for international students in May but progress depended on approval from the federal government.
The hub will host up to 160 international students while Australians returning from overseas will use medi-hotels in the CBD.
Federal Education Minister Alan Tudge said the international student plan wouldn’t take any quarantine places from Australians returning home.
“SA will need to continue to meet the longstanding preconditions we have set and ensure Australians are protected from potential COVID outbreaks,” he said.
Torrens University Australia has thrown itself support behind the international student plan and welcomed approval from the federal government.
Torrens University Vice President International Mark Falvo said the he return of international students to South Australia was significant.
“It’s good for students who want the opportunity to study in South Australia, it’s good for their families and communities, and it’s good for the South Australian economy,” Mr Falvo said.
“With our unique national footprint of 16 campuses around Australia, and as Australia’s fastest-growing university, we now look forward to continuing to work with other state governments and with Minister Tudge to ensure the best outcomes for Australian Higher Education and for the return of international students in other states.”
MBA News has reported how New South Wales has also submitted a pilot plan to the federal government to welcome international students back to Australia.
The pilot plan was supported by NSW Health and NSW Police and enables 250 international students to come to Sydney per fortnight from mid-year.
Council of International Students President Belle Lim said the plans sent a great message to international students studying online offshore that there was hope that things will return to normal again.
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