Review of the Export Education Levy, January 2006

The Export Education Levy was introduced in January 2003 in order to address development needs of the export education sector. At the time there was opposition to the introduction of the Levy from some provider groups. The independent Deloitte report shows that there is now an acceptance by most parts of the sector of the usefulness of the purposes which are funded by the Levy.

An international comparison included in the Review shows that the issues surrounding funding for international education development are common in other countries that provide international education services, and it can be seen that the Levy represents current best practice as a means to address these issues.

Deloitte have found that the operation and administration of the Levy by the Ministry of Education and the lead industry body (the Education New Zealand Trust) is open and efficient. A series of minor recommendations to further improve these processes are suggested, together with proposals to enhance the effectiveness of communications on the Levy. The Ministry and Education New Zealand will work together to implement these recommendations, where appropriate."