Skilled migrants, student visa: What you need to know about Australian migration changes in the 2026 federal budget

The government is looking to address skills shortages in construction and electrical trades. Source: SBS / Graphic art by Rosemary Vasquez-Brown

The federal government has introduced migration reforms focusing on high-skilled workers and strengthening the oversight of various visa categories.

Published 14 May 2026 11:05am

By Peggy Giakoumelos

Presented by TJ Correa

Source: SBS

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The permanent migration program is capped at 185,000 places with a strong focus on onshore skilled applicants.
A $85.2 million investment will accelerate skills assessments and licensing for workers in construction and electrical trades.
New funding will increase scrutiny of student and protection visa applications to ensure the integrity of the migration system.

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