Author: Helen Yu (fromsbs.com.au)
Interviewee: Kirk Yan(Director of Newstars Education & Migration Melbourne Branch, MARA-registered migration agent with years of experience and in-depth research in interpreting migration policy and forecasting changes, Editor-in-Chief of the Australia Migration Weekly Bulletin, affectionately known as “K-God” by his clients.)
Australia is facing a severe teacher shortage. Data from the NSW Department of Education released in May shows that 1,148 teacher vacancies exist across the public education system. With just three days until the start of Term 2, New South Wales still had 1,250 positions without suitable teachers.
Rising school enrolment rates, declining numbers of students pursuing teaching degrees, an ageing workforce, and a steady proportion of teachers leaving the profession each year are reported to be the main causes of the teacher shortage.
Federal Education Minister Jason Clare said: “Around 70% of people who study education are able to complete their degree, but only 50% of young people ultimately graduate successfully.”
Australia’s most acute shortage is in STEM teachers — that is, secondary school teachers of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
To address the current teacher shortage, Federal Education Minister Jason Clare indicated that consideration should be given to issuing fast-track visas to overseas teachers to fill the gaps in the education system. Home Affairs Minister Clare O’Neil has agreed to prioritise teacher visa applications currently in the queue.
So, can recruiting teachers from overseas solve Australia’s current teacher shortage? Will this fast-track visa for teachers attract suitably qualified candidates to work in Australia? Are there many international students currently studying education in Australia? And of those who graduate with a teaching qualification, how many are willing to remain in Australia to work as teachers?
Kirk Yan, Director of Newstars Education & Migration’s Melbourne and Tasmania operations and a MARA-registered migration agent, sat down for an exclusive interview with our reporter Helen.
If you have any questions about migrating to Australia, you are welcome to add Kirk on WeChat for a consultation.
