Australia to Halve Migrant Intake Through Tighter Visa Rules

New policies target international students and low-skilled workers, amid pressure on housing market and infrastructure.

Australia plans to halve its migrant intake over the next two years through tighter visa rules for international students and low-skilled workers.
The decision comes after a record 510,000 people migrated to Australia in the 12 months leading up to June 2023, largely driven by international students.
Under the new policies, international students will need to secure higher ratings on English tests and there will be more scrutiny on a student's second visa application that would prolong their stay.
A new specialist visa for highly skilled workers will be set up with the processing time cut to one week, helping businesses recruit top migrants amid tough competition with other developed economies.
The sudden influx of foreign workers and students has exacerbated pressure on an already tight rental market, with homelessness on the rise in the country.