Study Melbourne welcomed the formation of the Australian International Education Consultants Association (AIECA) in Melbourne on 17 June 2026.

The former Minister for Jobs and Economic Growth, delivered a keynote address at the event, acknowledging the important role education agents play in supporting international students and Victoria’s ongoing support for the sector and the state’s international student community.

Speakers Gary Li, Chair, AIECA; Fang Xinwen, Consul-General of the People's Republic of China in Melbourne; Sunny Yang, Vice-President (Growth and International), Monash University; The Hon. Phil Honeywood, Chief Executive Officer, International Education Association of Australia; Mr Amit Shreewastav, Managing Director, Australian Insurance Services Alliance; Robert Parsonson, Chief Executive Officer, AIECA; and Seema Shah, Vice Chair, AIECA also spoke at the event, reflecting on the challenges facing the sector and the importance of the establishment of AIECA in creating a unified national voice for international education consultants and professionals enabling international student mobility and education exchange.

The AIECA is now Australia’s largest education agent association, representing agencies and stakeholders across many of Australia’s key international student source markets.International education is an important part of Victoria’s economy and future prosperity. Victoria proudly welcomes and supports students from around the world.

International students are valued global citizens who contribute to our local communities and enrich our state with global connections, diversity and skills that drive innovation and critical research across our industries.