Australia Increases International Student Visa Fees | Australia Study Visa Updates

Effective July 1, 2024, the fee for international student visas in Australia will rise significantly, from $710 to $1,600. This adjustment underscores the growing value placed on education within Australia and reflects the Albanese Government's commitment to upholding integrity in the international education sector.

The increased fees will also contribute towards funding several crucial initiatives in both education and migration. These include measures recommended by the Universities Accord, aimed at enhancing fairness in Higher Education Contribution Scheme (HECS) payments, supporting paid practical experiences, and expanding FEE-Free Uni Ready courses. Additionally, financial assistance will be provided to apprentices and their employers within the Vocational Education and Training (VET) sector.

Aligned with these adjustments, various elements of the Migration Strategy will come into effect. Key changes include raising the Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT) to $73,150 through annual indexation, marking the second increase under the current government after a decade-long freeze. The duration of Temporary Graduate Visas will be shortened, and age eligibility criteria adjusted to curb extended stays by temporary visa holders, thereby addressing loopholes in the migration system.

Furthermore, enhancements to mobility for temporary skilled migrants aim to reduce exploitation and bolster productivity. Notably, the allowable period between employer sponsorships for these migrants will increase from 60 days to 180 days. The introduction of the Strengthening Employer Compliance Bill 2023 will introduce criminal penalties for employers found exploiting migrant workers, while a Workplace Justice Visa Pilot will enable temporary visa holders to remain in Australia temporarily while pursuing workplace justice.

Minister for Skills and Training, Brendan O’Connor, emphasized the importance of safeguarding Australia's reputation as a destination for quality education, highlighting ongoing efforts to eliminate unscrupulous providers and ensure all students receive the education they deserve.

Minister for Education, Jason Clare, reiterated the significance of international education to Australia's national interests, stressing that these reforms will fortify integrity and support recommended reforms to improve educational offerings.

Minister for Home Affairs and Cyber Security, Clare O’Neil, acknowledged past deficiencies in both the migration and international education systems, underscoring the need for comprehensive reform to restore integrity and foster growth opportunities.

Minister for Immigration, Citizenship and Multicultural Affairs, Andrew Giles, emphasized the reforms' role in empowering vulnerable workers and combating exploitation, ultimately aiming to boost wages and opportunities for both skilled migrants and Australians alike.

These reforms mark a concerted effort by the Albanese Government to overhaul Australia's migration and education sectors, ensuring they remain fair, efficient, and conducive to national prosperity.