What Brexit could mean for Australia

POSSIBLE PROS AND CONS FOR AUSTRALIA OF BRITAIN LEAVING THE EU

SHOULD AUSTRALIANS CARE?

* Those in favour of a "Brexit" claim it could become easier for Aussies wanting to study or work in the UK.

* Aussie wine makers and other exporters could also potentially benefit from new trade deals with Britain.

LONDON CALLING

* Leave proponents argue a Brexit would give Britain greater control over immigration.

* EU citizens would, like Australians, probably have to apply for work and study visas. That could potentially reduce the current squeeze on Australian applicants.

TRADING TIES

* Prime minister Malcolm Turnbull says Australia's talks with the EU about a free trade agreement in 2017 will continue.

* The benefits many Australian businesses derive from using the UK as a base to expand into Europe may be impacted.

DRINK UP

* Britain is the number one export destination, by volume, for Australian wines. The extra tariff on Australian wines in Britain, unlike those exported from the EU, could be lifted, making Aussie wine cheaper in the UK.

* Alternatively, it could be slapped on all imported wine, creating a more level playing field at the retail level.

EDUCATION

* EU uni students may want to head to Australia as fees could increase in Britain and visa rules may be introduced.

* The International Education Association of Australia expects a Brexit would make it easier for Australian academics to work at British universities, but others argue they would be less attractive as they would no longer be a springboard to EU institutions.

HOLIDAY?

* A UK holiday has suddenly become a lot cheaper, thanks to a much weaker British pound. The Australian dollar is now buying 54 pence.