Inside AIEC: Visa Loopholes, AI Decisions, and the Future of Australia’s International Education Sector

It’s day two of the AIEC conference in Canberra, and co-hosts Rob Malicki and Dirk Mulder have barely caught their breath. The expo hall’s buzzing, the NOSC allocations have just dropped, and everyone’s trying to figure out what it all means.From the latest on the government’s New Overseas Student Commencement numbers to AI quietly making visa decisions, this episode of Global Horizons takes you right into the thick of it — straight from the floor of Australia’s biggest international education gathering.In typical Rob-and-Dirk style, it’s equal parts analysis, banter, and behind-the-scenes insight.🔹 Highlights include:What the new NOSC allocations mean for universities vs private providers — and why “normalisation” might not mean what you think.Dirk’s bold prediction: a major student shift from universities to private HE providers come March.How AI is already influencing visa decisions — and why that’s raising red flags for transparency.A peek into this year’s IEAA Awards — including well-deserved wins for Kerry Ramirez, Sophie O’Keefe, and Eleanor Williams.The challenges (and joys) of trying to write stories, attend meetings, and survive on conference-hall coffee.Why, despite all the uncertainty, the vibe this year feels different — lighter, warmer, and more connected.By the time the episode wraps, you’ll have a front-row view of the policy shifts, people, and politics shaping Australian international education right now — and a few good laughs along the way.Global Horizons is a production of The Global Society, Australia’s Learning Abroad support company. Our editor is Len Zamora and our distribution specialist is Angelo Ablao. Rob Malicki is the executive editor and host. The podcast wouldn’t be possible without The Koala News, Australia’s international education news website. This episode is supported by Choosing Your Uni, Australia’s unique, AI-powered platform that helps domestic and international students find the right institution for them, and that helps Australian institutions access new markets. For guest suggestions and feedback, email [email protected].