SYDNEY: Australia is preparing to further tighten visa rules for international students as the government seeks to reduce migration levels and ease pressure on housing and infrastructure.
According to Reuters, Australian Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke is expected to announce new changes to the country’s immigration policy.
The Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC), citing key points ahead of the minister’s expected speech, reported that international students could face restrictions on bringing their spouses, partners and children to Australia while they study.
The proposed measures are also expected to tighten rules governing the family members of international students, as well as regulations allowing temporary visa holders to switch from one visa category to another.
The Australian government aims to reduce net overseas migration from around 300,000 currently to 225,000 a year by 2028.
What are the current rights of international students?
Under the current arrangements, international students in Australia can make visa arrangements to bring their spouse or partner with them. Dependent children under the age of 18 may also be included.
Spouses and partners of international students are generally permitted to work in Australia, although the number of hours they can work may vary depending on the student’s course and visa conditions.
If the proposed changes are implemented, international students could face significantly tighter restrictions on bringing family members with them when choosing Australia as a destination for higher education.
Australia’s plan to reduce migration
The proposed measures come as Australia continues efforts to bring down elevated levels of net overseas migration recorded in recent years.
According to official figures, net overseas migration stood at 306,000 in the year ending June 30, 2025. The figure was 429,000 in 2024 and reached a peak of 518,000 in 2023.
International students accounted for a significant share of migration, with 2025 figures indicating that they represented more than half of net migration.
Pressure on housing and infrastructure
The increase in migration has intensified debate in Australia over pressure on housing, infrastructure and public services.
Critics have argued that the large number of new arrivals has contributed to increased demand for housing, particularly in major population centres.
Australia reopened its borders in February 2022 after nearly two years of COVID-19 restrictions. The move was followed by an increase in arrivals across several categories, including international students, backpackers and temporary skilled workers.
However, net overseas migration has also shown a declining trend over the past two years.
One Nation calls for deeper cuts
The government’s proposed policy changes come amid growing pressure from the right-wing One Nation party, which has called for a substantial reduction in the number of temporary migrants.
One Nation said this week that it wants to reduce the number of temporary migrants by up to 750,000 over three years, arguing that the move would ease pressure on Australian citizens.
The party has also proposed limiting net overseas migration to 130,000 a year after the initial three-year period, with an annual review of the programme.
