On 6 May 2022, we all gathered at the stunning waterfront Darwin Convention Centre, for a day of stimulating presentations and discussions. We were all moved by the opening speech delivered by the Honorary Nicole Manison, Minister of International Education and Deputy Chief of the NT. The passion that is felt in NT for international students and their contribution to society is heart-warming. It is no surprise that NT was the state that received the first pilot program for returning international students during the pandemic. Thanks as always to Simon Costain from Go Study as MC, as well as of course to Robert Parsonson for a packed program. Covering issues from the rise of the agent aggregator to an overview on immigration by Abul Rizvi, formerly responsible for policy advice and administration in Home Affairs. Melanie Macfarlane, MARN 0319166, covering options and pathways available for international students. Highlights also included a discussion chaired by Simon Costain on how to best plan for the worst-case scenario, after having handled 2 years of a global pandemic and border closure. The best presentation of all came from the international students themselves and a sneak peek at the Kindness Shake Festival which is taking place for the second time in Darwin on 25 June 2022. The festival promotes multiculturalism in NT and the contribution made by international students throughout the region. There is still time to sponsor if you are interested! Please contact ISEAA for further details. The day would not have been complete without drinks at the wharf sponsored by International House and the connections made by all. We can never underestimate the power of events such as SYMPLED to forge long-term business relationships and promote our wonderful and important international education industry.
SYMPLED is now in its 5th year, and it is time to support the symposium and ISEAA to further advocate for education agents before the government. Watch out for further details about our agent certification program, the only way to self-regulate our industry, well-timed with a new government in place in Australia.