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The tourism industry in Australia has criticised both sides of politics over plans to cut immigration numbers.
Both Prime Minister Julia Gillard and Opposition Leader Tony Abbott have both said they would make cuts to immigration, which currently takes in 270,000 people a year.
But the Australian Tourism Export Council (ATEC) has cautioned both sides of politics to consider the economic consequences, especially if international student visa numbers are restricted.
ATEC managing director Matt Hingerty said more than 80 per cent of all international students attract at least one other overseas visitor to Australia during their stay.
"Any changes to international student visa numbers need to be made with the knowledge of the flow-on effects this will have on other sectors of the economy," he said in a statement.
Mr Hingerty said the international education sector was a vital component of Australia's $26 billion inbound tourism sector.
"Australian tourism businesses are just emerging from one of the most challenging trading periods in recent memory, having to deal with the Global Financial Crisis, a high dollar, a shortage of labour and increased competition from overseas tourism destinations," he said.
"Right now these operators more than ever need the custom of not only the international student market, but also their associated visiting friends and relatives.
"Decreasing the number of international students will adversely impact upon the inbound tourism industry."
