A new analysis revealed a sharp decline in domestic enrolments in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) courses in Australia, with experts warning of serious economic and workforce implications.
Data from the Federal Government’s Tertiary Collection of Student Information (TCSI) highlighted that domestic STEM enrolments, which peaked in 2021, have steadily declined over the past two years. The data shows a 3.1% decrease in 2022 and a further 1.4% drop in 2023.
The decline is most evident in high-demand fields such as information technology, engineering, and natural and physical sciences. Notably, domestic enrolments in natural and physical sciences have fallen by 11% between 2021 and 2023.
“Forget a brain drain, we are at risk of a brain drought,” said Professor Pascale Quester, vice-chancellor and president of Swinburne University of Technology. She emphasized the urgency of addressing this issue, calling the situation a major obstacle to the government’s “Future Made in Australia” initiative.
“As a dual-sector institution, no one is in lockstep with the Federal Government’s ‘Future Made in Australia’ policy more than Swinburne,” she stated. “But a decline in domestic STEM enrolments, and a confused and haphazard policy environment, means we are fighting with our hands tied behind our back.”
International student growth vs. domestic decline
While domestic interest in STEM wanes, international enrolments in these fields have risen by 39% since 2021. International students are also helping narrow the gender gap in disciplines like information technology, where they now represent 66% of female enrolments.
“There is so much STEM talent in the region, but we have slammed the door in their faces with hastily crafted policy and an Evidence Level system that is ‘evidence’ in name only,” Professor Quester said.
Swinburne University has urged the Federal Government to prioritise STEM enrolments in visa processing by replacing Ministerial Direction 107 (MD107) with a STEM-focused policy. According to Professor Quester, this step would ensure Australia retains the talent needed to sustain its economy and innovation.
“We are proposing a simple, pragmatic approach that restores equity in the higher education sector,” she said. “Protecting and enhancing our STEM talent pipeline is not just in the interest of universities: it is essential for a ‘Future Made in Australia.’”
With the 2025 academic year approaching, the uncertainty surrounding visa policies and the continuing decline in domestic STEM enrolments may have far-reaching consequences. Professor Quester warned that disruptions to international student plans could erode trust in Australia’s education system and 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,” she noted.