Australia announced on Monday its intention to tighten visa regulations for international students and low-skilled workers, anticipating a potential 50% reduction in migrant intake over the next two years. The move is part of a comprehensive effort by the government to revamp what it deems a “broken” migration system.
The decision follows an expected peak in net immigration at a record 510,000 in 2022-23, with projections indicating a decline to approximately a quarter of a million in 2024-25 and 2025-26, aligning closely with pre-COVID levels, according to official data.
Home Affairs Minister Clare O’Neil stated, “We’ve worked around the clock to strike the best balance in Australia’s migration system,” emphasizing that the government’s targeted reforms are already contributing to a downward trend in net overseas migration.
The surge in net overseas migration in 2022-23 was primarily attributed to international students. In response, the Australian government temporarily increased migration numbers last year to address staffing shortages caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, commenting on the need for a “sustainable level” of migration, emphasized that the current system is “broken.” Australia, traditionally reliant on immigration to address labor market demands, is now re-evaluating its approach.
The new policies include requiring international students to achieve higher English test scores and discontinuing provisions that allowed students to extend their stay in Australia. Additionally, a specialized visa for highly skilled workers will be established, featuring a one-week processing time to aid businesses in recruiting top talent amid fierce competition with other developed economies. Source: Reuters
