Australia is set to introduce stricter visa regulations for international students from this week in a bid to tackle record migration numbers that are putting pressure on the country’s rental market.
According to official figures, migration rates have increased sharply, prompting the government to tighten English language requirements for student and graduate visas.
In addition, the authorities will have the power to suspend education providers found to be in breach of rules relating to international student recruitment.
Home Secretary Clare O’Neil emphasized that these measures are part of efforts to reduce the level of migration and at the same time address shortcomings in the existing system. A new “genuine student test” will be introduced to discourage students who are primarily looking for work opportunities in Australia. In addition, multiple visitor visas will be subject to “no further stay” conditions to prevent overstays.
Last year, the government took steps to scrap COVID-era concessions, including unlimited working hours for foreign students, with the intention of halving migrant income within two years.
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A surge in migration, triggered by the easing of border controls after the pandemic, has strained the rental housing market and exacerbated the existing housing shortage.
Australian Bureau of Statistics data revealed a 60% increase in net immigration to a record 548,800 people in the year ending 30 September 2023, beating the previous year’s figures.
This influx, driven mainly by students from India, China and the Philippines, has expanded the labor pool and eased wage pressures, but intensified housing problems.
Minister O’Neil noted a drop in migration levels following government measures, with recent international student visas down 35% compared to the previous year. These regulatory changes aim to equalize migration levels while addressing housing and labor market pressures in Australia.
