Study in Australia 2026 is attracting significant attention as many universities announce an increase in tuition fees by 5%–13%. However, the government is simultaneously expanding international student quotas, providing more opportunities for study and potential residency, especially in community services and social work fields.
Australian universities to increase tuition fees from 2026
According to The Australian, from 2026, several major Australian universities will adjust tuition fees for international students, with increases ranging from 5% to 13%, 2–3 times higher than the current inflation rate.
- University of Melbourne: International undergraduate tuition rises by 6.9%. Engineering programs are expected to cost over AUD 60,000/year, Law around AUD 56,000/year.
- University of Sydney: Average increase of 5%, ranging from AUD 49,000–60,000/year. Business programs may reach up to AUD 60,600/year.
- Australian National University (ANU): New fees between AUD 46,700–56,100/year, including Arts programs.
- Monash University: Increase of 1.2–3.6%, ranging from AUD 39,200–57,500/year.
Australian government expands international student quotas
A positive signal: the Australian government has raised the target for international student enrolments.
- 2025: approximately 270,000 students
- 2026: increasing to 295,000 students → an additional 25,000 places
This demonstrates that Australia continues to welcome international students, while expanding opportunities for Vietnamese students. Currently, there are over 820,000 international students in Australia, including more than 33,000 Vietnamese students, ranking fourth among the largest international student groups.
Average tuition fees by field of study in Australia
| Field | Average Tuition (AUD/year) | Notes |
| Medicine | 55,000 – 70,000 | Highest, significant increase from 2026 |
| Engineering | 48,000 – 62,000 | High-cost group |
| Business | 45,000 – 60,000 | Many programs rising >10% |
| Law | 50,000 – 56,000 | High-cost group |
| Social Work | 32,000 – 45,000 | More accessible tuition |
| Community Services (Aged Care, Mental Health) | 28,000 – 40,000 | High workforce demand, good residency prospects |
Social Work and Community Services programs are significantly more affordable compared to high-fee fields such as Medicine, Engineering, and Business.
Next Gem insights: Social Work & Community Services have strong potential
According to Next Gem consultants, Vietnamese students can take advantage of the expanded international student quotas while choosing fields that offer:
- Tuition fees within family budgets
- High workforce demand in Australia
- Strong residency opportunities due to being on the priority occupation list
Graduates in Social Work or Community Services can work within the NDIS system, community organisations, mental health centres, and aged care facilities. This provides a sustainable pathway for study, employment, and permanent residency.
Contact Next Gem for expert advice
Next Gem specialises in guiding students through study, work, and residency pathways in Community Services and Social Work in Australia.
>> Register for a free consultation today to:
- Choose programs and universities that fit your budget
- Understand professional requirements and mandatory checks in Social Work
- Build a sustainable study–work–residency plan in Australia
