On September 2, 2025, the Victorian Department of Education released a major announcement: Victoria’s public schools will no longer consider graduates holding a Chinese Graduate Diploma of Education (GD) qualification when hiring.

This news landed like a bombshell, leaving countless students who are currently studying for, or planning to pursue, a GD qualification feeling anxious. The official reason cited was “ensuring education quality,” but the impact struck directly at the hearts of many aspiring migrants. Originally, many believed that interstate recognition would allow them to secure jobs across different states. Now that Victoria has taken the lead in rejecting GD graduates, does this mean the migration pathway through GD is blocked? Not necessarily. Let’s take a closer look at the implications of this new policy and the latest updates from other states.

The Reality and Impact of Victoria’s New Policy
First, it’s important to clarify that this new rule applies mainly to public schools in Victoria. Currently, private and church schools are not required to enforce this policy, meaning GD graduates can still find opportunities in these institutions. However, we must remain cautious about the “one-size-fits-all” trend. Just as New South Wales has long refused to issue teaching registration to GD graduates, Victoria’s move could trigger a chain reaction, with other states potentially following suit. If multiple states impose restrictions on GD qualifications, graduates will face a shrinking pool of employment options, with increased competition for the limited positions available.

A Ray of Hope: Western Australia Keeps Its Doors Open
While Victoria is “closing the door,” Western Australia is taking the opposite stance. The WA government has made its position clear: it recognizes GD qualifications and welcomes graduates holding them to come and work in WA. With teacher shortages currently affecting the state’s education sector, WA is actively recruiting qualified teachers, including those with a GD diploma. Similarly, Tasmania presents a mixed picture. Although public kindergartens in Tasmania do not accept graduates with an Early Childhood GD qualification, private kindergartens remain an option. This once again shows that the GD diploma is not a “dead end,” though it does limit employment flexibility.

Three Golden Suggestions for the Migration Pathway
So, what should students who are considering or already pursuing a GD do?

Skills Assessment and Visa Applications Remain Unaffected: For now, GD qualifications are still accepted for skills assessment. If you receive an invitation through the Subclass 189 Skilled Independent visa and lodge your application, there are no issues. The new rule impacts employment, not migration eligibility.

Consider a Two-Year Master’s Degree: If your time and financial situation allow, pursuing a two-year Master of Teaching is strongly recommended. This qualification is recognized nationwide across Australia. Whether for teacher registration or future career development, it is more secure and minimizes the risks posed by shifting policies.

Plan Flexibly and Seize Opportunities: If you have already completed a GD course, consider targeting states like Western Australia, which continue to welcome GD graduates. At the same time, keep a close eye on private and church school recruitment, as these institutions often have more flexible requirements.

Conclusion
The road to migration through education is full of challenges, but as long as you stay informed, plan wisely, and adapt, you will be able to find the path that best suits your situation. If you have doubts about your specific case, professional consultation can help you design the most reliable plan.