The Australian government has implemented substantial revisions to its visa policies affecting international students, including a significant 125% increase in the visa fee, which now stands at A$1,600 from the previous A$710, effective July 1.
Moreover, changes stipulate that holders of visitor visas and temporary graduate visas are no longer eligible to apply for a student visa while in Australia. These adjustments are part of the government’s strategy, as stated by Home Affairs Minister Clare O’Neil, aimed at restoring integrity to the international education sector and fostering a more equitable migration system overall.
Recent official figures indicate a notable 60% rise in net immigration, peaking at 548,800 individuals in the year leading up to September 30, 2023. This surge underscores the government’s proactive approach to managing the influx of international students and other immigrants more effectively.