Australia Tightens Student Visa Rules, Targets Migration Cut by 2028

Australia is set to tighten immigration rules by restricting international students from bringing partners and children while studying, as the government seeks to reduce net overseas migration, according to media reports on Thursday.

Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke is expected to announce that Australia will aim to cut net overseas migration to 225,000 by 2028, down from roughly 300,000 currently, ABC News reported. Burke is scheduled to outline the immigration changes in a speech at the National Press Club later on Thursday.

The proposed reforms would also tighten rules allowing temporary migrants to switch between visa categories while in Australia.

Under current Australian student visa rules, international students can bring spouses, partners and dependent children under 18. Partners of foreign students are also permitted to work, although allowable working hours vary depending on the student's course.

The expected changes come amid intensifying political debate over immigration. One Nation, which has gained support in recent polls, proposed this week cutting the temporary migrant population by 750,000 over three years. The party said its plan would give Australians "breathing space."

One Nation also wants net overseas migration reduced to 130,000 after the initial three-year period, with migration levels reviewed annually.

Australia experienced a sharp rise in migration after reopening its international borders in February 2022 following nearly two years of COVID-19 restrictions. International students, temporary skilled workers and backpackers have been major contributors to the increase.

Migration levels have since declined from their post-pandemic peak. Official figures show net overseas migration reached 306,000 in the year ended June 30, 2025, compared with 429,000 in 2024 and a record 518,000 in 2023. International students accounted for more than half of the 2025 total.

The government faces continued pressure over the impact of migration on Australia's housing supply, infrastructure and public services. The proposed student visa restrictions and lower migration target signal a further tightening of immigration policy as officials seek to manage population growth while balancing Australia's education and labor-market needs.