Australian Pilot Training Academy [02844F] (APTA) trading as Vortex Air Academy defaulted on 8 November 2022 and did not meet its obligations to its international students in Australia and intending overseas students.
Vortex Air Academy ceased delivering tuition
On Tuesday 8 November 2022 Vortex Air Academy defaulted when they ceased delivery of tuition. Under 46D of the Education Services for Overseas Students Act 2000 (ESOS ACT), Vortex Air Academy had 14 days to meet its obligations to place students in an alternative course or provide students with a refund. The company was unable to meet its obligations to students and entered administration on 23 November. Mathew Dieter of Windsor Blum was appointed as the administrator.
TPS has been activated
The TPS activated the placement service on Wednesday 30 November 2022. The TPS will contact Vortex Air Academy’s international students and help them to find alternative providers, or refund students where a placement is not possible.
Student meeting
On Friday 2 December at 11.30 am (AEDT) an online student meeting will be held to inform students of the TPS support available and next steps. Student will be contacted directly via SMS and email with a link to join the session. If any students are unable to attend, the TPS will follow up with them after the meeting.
Students to seek new placement or refund from TPS
Students can seek a placement with an alternative provider or seek a refund from the TPS for unspent tuition fees using TPS Online. The Student information handout outlines the process of working with TPS and includes other useful contacts. This step-by-step guide takes you through how to use TPS Online.
Contact information
If you have questions, contact us on 1300 131 798 or at support@tps.gov.au.
Visa information
For information on how a provider default impacts on your visa visit the Department of Home Affairs website.
If you have any questions about visa related matters, contact student.visa.help.desk@homeaffairs.gov.au or call 131 881.
Support services
For support services for students, visit Study Melbourne, call 1800 049 556, or email info@studymelbourne.vic.gov.au.