17/09/2026
Major migration changes announced today:
Student and graduate visas
There will be restrictions on family members accompanying student and graduate visa applicants with only some exceptions! Families already in Australia will not be affected!
Working Holiday Makers
second and third year working holiday visas will move to a ballot based system and caps will be introduced for second and third year visas!
Visitor visas
will include a no further stay condition so as to limit the ability for visitors to apply for another visa onshore!
Student visa Hopping
There will be restrictions on students changing courses at the same or lower qualification level!
Skilled migration
Priority will be given to occupations in key sectors such as construction, health, aged care, teaching and agriculture!
Points test Reform
There will be changes to the points test, including that trade qualifications in the construction sector will receive higher points!
Visa Overstayers
There will be greater detention capacity for overstayers!
At this stage we do not know when changes will be implemented! More information will be provided as soon as it becomes available!