Australia’s Migration Strategy, unveiled on December 11, 2023, marks a significant shift in the nation’s approach to immigration, particularly impacting the international education sector. Dr. Martin Parkinson led the review that prompted these changes, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive overhaul of the migration system.
The strategy aims to enhance regulation in international education, introducing more rigorous processes for approving or rejecting foreign student applicants.
Some post-study work rights have been reduced, leading to fewer international students staying in the country for extended periods.
The savings threshold for applicants has been raised by 17% to AUS$24,505.
To ensure authenticity, a new “Genuine Student Test” will apply to all international students.
Visa applicants now face higher English-language requirements.
The Australian government, in its Migration Strategy, acknowledges the need to rebuild the migration system, aiming to transform it into a nation-building engine.
The reforms are driven by a desire to attract individuals who can contribute to the skills base, boost exports, and raise living standards.
While there is no mandated cap on international student numbers, the new policies are expected to reduce their influx by challenging non-genuine students to obtain study and work visas.
Financial requirements for visa applicants have been raised, potentially influencing the AUS$30 billion-per-year international education sector.
The Migration Strategy outlines a commitment to strengthening the integrity and quality of international education, targeting completion by the end of 2024. Key actions include:
Proposed reforms to the points test will provide faster pathways to permanent residency for graduates working in skilled jobs.
The COVID-19 pandemic undermined the system’s integrity, leading to financial challenges for educational institutions.
Policies enacted to bring back international students resulted in a growth partly driven by non-genuine students.
Australia’s migration reforms align with international trends. Canada and the UK have also introduced stricter measures to regulate international education and migration.
In conclusion, Australia’s Migration Strategy signifies a paradigm shift, emphasizing integrity, quality, and sustainability in international education and migration.
Stakeholders in the sector are urged to adapt to these changes for the continued prosperity of Australia’s education system.
Answer: The test aims to differentiate genuine applicants, incentivizing them while signalling that most students are expected to return home.
Answer: The requirements will be raised, increasing the IELTS score for Temporary Graduate and Student Visas.
Answer: Adjustments to post-study work rights, visa hopping restrictions, and points test reforms are introduced.
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