Australia’s shifting migration rules risk deterring skilled migrants and students
Industry leaders warned that recent changes to migration, student and working-holiday visas will make Australia less attractive to skilled talent.
At a Senate committee in Canberra, representatives from construction, aged-care and education sectors warned that the latest immigration reforms will erode Australia’s appeal to top global talent. The changes, unveiled by Immigration Minister Tony Burke, tighten rules on student, graduate and working-holiday visas, including a ban on family accompaniment for most international students. Universities Australia chief Luke Sheehy said the frequent policy swings and vague regional definitions send a negative signal abroad.
Graham Brown of the Regional Universities Network urged exemptions for students at regional campuses, especially PhD candidates. Tasmanian Premier Jeremy Rockliff cautioned that cutting second-year working-holiday visas from 57,000 to 45,000 and third-year visas from 31,000 to 5,000 will leave seasonal jobs unfilled. Opposition spokesman Jonathon Duniam called for a comprehensive overhaul of the skilled-visa list to match actual labour needs.
Why it matters
The reforms could reduce the flow of skilled migrants, affecting Australia’s workforce and economic growth.
How this story developed
- Sep 16 Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke to unveil long-delayed migration reforms
- Sep 17 The reforms now include a “no further stay” clause for visitor visas and limit student family arrivals.
- Sep 18 Burke delivered the reforms at the National Press Club, triggering protests and political criticism.
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