Former Liberal MP Bruce Baird will head a government review into Australia's $15.5 billion international education sector, aimed at shoring up the nation's third biggest export industry.

Australia's reputation as an education hub for the region has taken a battering in recent months.

It took a hit following the outcry over violence against international students, particularly Indians and the problem has been exacerbated by claims of suspect education providers exploiting their clients.

Mr Baird admitted Australia's reputation had been damaged in recent times.

He believes the community will be keen for action, mindful of being perceived as racist or uncaring about students coming to this country.

"They'll want these issues addressed," he told AAP.

The review will examine legislation governing education services for overseas students, focusing on four main areas - the welfare of students, quality of services, regulation and the sustainability of the industry.

"We'll be looking at the general welfare of students who come to our shores, as well as issues such as have we got dodgy operators," Mr Baird said.

He said much of Australia's work in the international education sector is handled really well. But the bottom end of the market needs to be scrutinised to ensure that "we're delivering quality education".

Deputy Prime Minister Julia Gillard, the education minister, said an issues paper would be released in coming weeks, outlining the key areas for consideration.

"Mr Baird will hold targeted forums with groups including state and territory government officials, regulatory bodies, education providers, student bodies and diplomatic missions," she said in a statement.

"He will also draw from the results of the international student round table to be held in Canberra in early September."

Mr Baird said he'd been assured by Ms Gillard that all issues would be on the table as part of the review.

"They're not about to protect anything. From her point of view it's about the interests of the students, the accountability of providers and regulation and enforcement," he said.

"We've definitely got the attention of this government ... so you know when we bring forward recommendations, they won't just be put in the bottom drawer."

Mr Baird is due to provide an interim report by November, to be considered by the Council of Australian Governments (CoAG).

His final report is due early next year.

Prime Minister Kevin Rudd has flagged a visit to India later this year - it will be his first since winning government after two earlier visits were deferred because of domestic Indian issues.

Indian foreign minister MS Krishna, who met Mr Rudd and Foreign Minister Stephen Smith on Friday, believes Australia's intake of Indian students won't be affected after receiving assurances about their safety from the government.

"The relationship between Australia and India has matured to the level that these small irritations which have taken place in the last three months will not upset that equilibrium," he said.