Government says the course was associated with visa misuse and high rates of non-completion; existing students can complete their studies

Australia has cancelled the Graduate Diploma of Management (Learning) (BSB80120) for new international students, in the first use of the Australian Government’s new powers to suspend or cancel courses offered to overseas students.

The decision follows what the government describes as significant evidence that the course was being used to facilitate onshore transfers by non-genuine students and was associated with high rates of visa refusals and course non-completion.

Key facts at a glance

• The course is offered through Australia's vocational education and training (VET) sector. Providers currently registered to offer it to international students will have their CRICOS registration for the course suspended or cancelled.
• The government says the action follows integrity reforms passed in November 2025, which gave the Minister powers to specify courses for automatic suspension or cancellation in circumstances including systemic problems in course delivery, concerns about alignment with Australia's skills needs, or the public interest.
• Importantly, this is not a cancellation of the course for students already enrolled. Students who have already commenced the qualification can continue their studies with their current provider.

What this means for students

For students planning to study in Australia, the announcement is another reminder that choosing the right course and provider matters just as much as securing admission or a student visa.

Australia is tightening scrutiny of parts of its international education system, particularly where there are concerns about visa integrity, course completion or the way courses are being used. Students should therefore look beyond whether a course is relatively easy to enter and consider how well it fits their previous education, career plans and longer-term study or employment goals.

For students considering vocational or postgraduate pathways in Australia, it is also important to check that the specific course remains open to new international students before making application or financial commitments.

The Australian Government says it will continue monitoring the impact of the decision on the international education sector and the visa system.

Students from Kerala considering Australia can speak with the team at IRS Study Abroad, Kottayam, for guidance on choosing suitable courses, universities and study pathways based on their academic background and plans.