Pearson, the leading learning organization in the world, recently released a study revealing that immigrants are the engine of the Australian economy. As per the study, within months of settlement, they contribute significantly to wages well above the median and occupy positions in vital industries. The Study also discovered that the main reason 72% of Indian students want to migrate to Australia is the country’s reputation for offering top-notch education, which drives this significant contribution.
The Pearson Migrant and Student Study (PMASS) analyzed over 3000 Australian migrants who had taken Pearson’s English Academic Test (PTE). It is a globally recognized English test used in Australia for work and study visas and professional registration, to understand their economic, social, and cultural contributions and role in shaping Australians’ shared understanding of the ‘Great Australian Dream.’
One of Australia’s many problems is a skills shortage, exacerbated by an ageing population and slowing productivity growth. The government’s Migration Strategy was released in December 2023 and outlined several vital needs, including the need for lower-skilled labourers and highly qualified migrants for essential sectors like the care sector.
In line with the Migration Strategy, the PMASS found migrants who had taken the PTE were comparable to the Government’s CSAM test respondents and more likely to be employed in crucial fields. Over double the number of these test-takers were in aged and disabled care compared to the general population (3.6% vs 1.4%), four times more were registered nurses (8.6% vs 2.1%), and seven times more were in software and applications programmers (6.3% vs 0.9%).
The survey also found that PTE (Pearson Test of English) is popular among Indian test-takers seeking study or work opportunities in Australia. PTE’s popularity is rooted in the success stories of Indians who find Australia a quality destination with a safe and supportive environment for living, higher education, and employment opportunities. It sheds light on the key drivers that make India a leading source of Australian migrants.
Key reasons Australia is the go-to option for Indian students include the following:
- Pursuing high-quality education remains the primary motivator for Indian students choosing Australia, with 72% citing this as their reason.
- Australia’s reputation as a safe and welcoming environment (58%) is another significant pull factor.
- Furthermore, the promising post-graduation employment prospects (43%) further contribute to Australia’s appeal as a desirable destination for Indian migrants.
About Pearson’s Test of English Academic (PTE)
As compared to previous English language tests, a whopping 90% of Indian respondents said that taking the PTE was the finest experience they ever had. This significant preference is probably due to PTE’s adaptable testing format, quick turnaround for results, and extensive network of testing locations throughout India. According to the Study, immigrants’ economic contributions increase with time. Six months after relocating, PTE test takers made a median annual salary of $93K, much more than the $73K national median income. The broader economy is impacted by this because, according to recent OECD reports, localities with higher migrant arrivals see an increase in productivity and an economic benefit of $1.5K per person.
Additional findings from the research also highlight the reciprocal benefit to migration – the value that migrants see in Australia – and, concurrently, the value migrants add to the Australian economy and social fabric:
Australia is a nation of open arms
91% of PTE test takers feel welcome in Australia (at least those who have completed PTE Academic over the past seven years).
Migrants value their life in Australia
8 out of 10 (84%) say Australia has met or exceeded their expectations, and female migrants are significantly more likely to value the independence they get from living in Australia (11% vs 5% of men).
Migrants are hopeful for their future in Australia
Migrants’ goals are achievable for study visa holders because of quality education facilities (21%), good job opportunities (17%), employment/career progression (16%), education (10%) and other factors.
Learning English is essential to positive migrant experiences
97% of PTE test takers agree that learning English is necessary as part of their life in Australia. Over two-thirds agree it’s essential because it helps them understand Australian rules and regulations (67%), helps them get work (66%), and increases their ties to the broader community (63%), among other reasons.
Commenting on the findings, Sasha Hampson, VP of PTE Global Stakeholder Relations at Pearson, said:
At a time when native skills are declining, skilled migrants and international students, who themselves will likely become skilled workers, are a beacon of hope for Australia’s economy and way of life. Experienced workers and international students are essential to Australia’s economy, education system and way of life. This research evidences their positive contributions to Australia and our collective understanding of the ‘Australian Dream’.
Hampson added:
As Australia continues to depend on migration, trusted, AI-led English visa tests must be in place to ensure future migrants—legitimate and skilled—can sustain the things we as Australians hold dear—diversity, inclusion, opportunity, a professional, resourced workforce, and a strong economy.
About Pearson
Pearson believes that every learning opportunity is a chance for a personal breakthrough. That’s why its approximately 20,000 employees are committed to creating vibrant and enriching learning experiences designed for real-life impact. The platform serves customers in nearly 200 countries with digital content, assessments, qualifications, and data.
