The Yes to International Students Fund (YISF) is a new Victorian Government initiative to support public Victorian universities and TAFEs and enhance global education opportunities for international students.
Launched in early 2025, YISF supports the development of offshore education partnerships and transnational education (TNE) programs.
The 2025 YISF projects include:
- New courses with international partners
- Stronger partnerships with overseas education providers
- Student and teacher exchange programs
- Training and support for offshore teachers
- Better ways to deliver education across borders
These initiatives will be delivered in collaboration with overseas partners across Victoria’s international education network, in countries including China, India, Indonesia, Vietnam, and Sri Lanka.
For example, the Bendigo Kangan Institute will establish the vocational Automotive Centre of Excellence Cambodia (ACE-C) in Phnom Penh. This includes:
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Specialised training for Cambodian vocational teachers in the automotive industry
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A short online course to help students learn the technical language used in automotive jobs
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A customised program for car dealership advisors focusing on customer service, sales, and leadership
This means more support and opportunities for students and teachers in Cambodia to build real-world skills.
Similarly, Box Hill Institute will focus on enhancing teacher capabilities by developing and delivering a Graduate Certificate in Adult and Vocational Education across China and key Southeast Asian nations, including Vietnam and the Philippines. The course will:
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Improve teaching skills and confidence
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Provide practical tools for delivering high-quality TNE programs
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Strengthen the education workforce in key international markets
These projects are just the beginning. Each one helps bring Victorian education to the world while giving students outside Australia more access to globally recognised qualifications.
For more information on the YISF projects and other initiatives supporting international students in Victoria, visit the Study Melbourne website.