Australia to increase international student intake, some fear more competition amid job struggles

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A section of international students claim due to rising unemployment, getting part-time job has become tougher in Australia.

As the Australian government has announced to lift the cap on international student numbers in 2026, a section of current international students say this move could intensify competition as many are already 'struggling' to find jobs. To know more, listen to this podcast.


Australia will increase international student places to 295,000 from 2026—an increase of 25,000 compared to 2025. These are part of new national planning levels set by the government.

Additionally, international students moving from Australian schools, TAFEs or pathway providers to public universities will be exempt from the national planning level.

While some students blame rising unemployment and employers' preference for permanent visa holders as key reasons for their struggles, experts have also raised concerns about growing migration numbers.

To know more, listen to this podcast.

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