Australia’s 2026 federal budget has placed renewed focus on skilled migration while signalling tighter scrutiny of international student visas. In an SBS Urdu podcast, senior migration expert Shakeel Ahmad explains what these changes could mean for migrants, students and future visa applicants.
Australia’s federal budget for 2026 has outlined new migration priorities aimed at addressing workforce shortages while tightening oversight of the international student visa system. The government says the changes are designed to align migration with the country’s economic needs and maintain the integrity of the visa framework.
Speaking to SBS Urdu, senior migration expert Shakeel Ahmad said skilled migration is expected to remain a key pillar of Australia’s economic strategy, particularly in sectors facing labour shortages such as healthcare, construction, information technology and regional services.
According to Ahmad, the government’s emphasis on “targeted migration” suggests that applicants with qualifications and experience in high-demand industries may continue to find opportunities under the skilled migration program.
