A recent analysis has revealed a worrying decline in domestic enrolments in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) courses in Australia, sparking concerns about the nation’s economic and workforce sustainability. Data from the Federal Government’s Tertiary Collection of Student Information (TCSI) shows a steady decrease in enrolments since their peak in 2021, with a 3.1% drop in 2022 and a further 1.4% decline in 2023.
The decrease is particularly pronounced in high-demand fields such as information technology, engineering, and natural and physical sciences. Domestic enrolments in natural and physical sciences alone have fallen by 11% between 2021 and 2023.
A "Brain Drought" Looms
“Forget a brain drain, we are at risk of a brain drought,” warned Professor Pascale Quester, vice-chancellor and president of Swinburne University of Technology. She described the situation as a significant barrier to the Federal Government’s “Future Made in Australia” initiative, which aims to bolster local innovation and economic resilience.
Professor Quester attributed the decline to a confusing policy landscape and called for urgent action to address the issue. “A decline in domestic STEM enrolments, combined with a haphazard policy environment, means we are fighting with our hands tied behind our back,” she said.
International Students Fill the Gap
While domestic enrolments falter, international student numbers in STEM have surged, rising by 39% since 2021. Notably, international students now make up 66% of female enrolments in information technology, helping to reduce gender disparities in the field.
Despite this growth, Professor Quester expressed concerns about restrictive visa policies that may deter talented international students. She criticized the current Evidence Level system and urged the Federal Government to adopt a STEM-focused approach to visa processing, replacing Ministerial Direction 107 (MD107).
Calls for Policy Reform
Swinburne University has proposed prioritizing STEM enrolments in visa processing to safeguard Australia’s innovation pipeline. “Protecting and enhancing our STEM talent pipeline is not just in the interest of universities: it is essential for a ‘Future Made in Australia,’” Professor Quester stated.
The urgency to act is heightened as the 2025 academic year approaches. Without clear policy reform, the continued decline in domestic enrolments and potential disruptions to international student plans could erode trust in Australia’s education system and its future economic prospects.
“If the government is truly serious about delivering the skills and training required to ensure a better future for Australia, it must act now,” Professor Quester concluded.
