Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke has announced major changes to Australia’s migration system, including tighter rules for families of international students, a crackdown on visa hopping and new restrictions on visitor visa stays. The government will also introduce a ballot for second- and third-year backpacker visas, strengthen action against unlawful non-citizens and target rogue migration agents. Net overseas migration is expected to fall to 245,000 in 2026-27 and 225,000 in 2027-28, with skilled workers in key sectors given priority.
Major announcements
- Student visas: Restrictions on secondary applicants, including family members, accompanying most student visa holders
- Crackdown on "visa-hopping" andstronger action to remove unlawful non-citizens
- Priority for skilled migration in sectors including healthcare, construction, education, defence and agriculture
- 'No further extension of stay' condition will apply to all visitor visas, subject to some exemptions
- Migration agents: Crackdown on rogue agents who knowingly support visa applications without merit
Addressing the National Press Club, Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke highlighted the important role migrants play in modern Australia, saying, “We can never lose sight of the extraordinary strength of the fabric of our nation in what is modern, multicultural Australia.”
He also stated that "the housing shortage is not caused by immigration, but immigration needs to be part of the solution for the housing crisis."
The government, however, aims to reduce Australia's net overseas migration figure to 245,000 this financial year, and 225,000 in 2027-28.
Listen to expert analysis of the changes via this podcast
Disclaimer: The information given in this interview is of a general nature. This information may not be appropriate for your personal circumstances. Contact a registered migration agent for clear advice on your situation.
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