Impact of New Visa Laws on International Students | Australia Student Visa Updates

This change is poised to inflict serious financial and emotional harm on thousands of international students who are currently studying in Australia, expecting to secure a working visa upon completing their studies. These students have meticulously planned their education and future careers around the availability of this postgraduate working visa for several critical reasons.

For many international students, the 485 visa is essential for obtaining skill assessments required for migration purposes. Others need Australian work experience to gain specific licenses, and many depend on meaningful Australian work experience to enhance their career prospects. The sudden alteration of visa eligibility criteria disrupts these plans, casting uncertainty on the future of these students and their families.

This policy shift not only jeopardizes the personal and professional aspirations of these students but also risks damaging Australia's reputation as a reliable and attractive destination for international education. International students significantly contribute to the Australian economy, both through tuition fees and their participation in the workforce. Additionally, they bring diverse skills and perspectives that enrich Australian society and drive innovation.

The new law particularly impacts highly talented PhD students, most of whom are over 35. These individuals are often involved in advanced research that can lead to breakthroughs in various fields, contributing to Australia's knowledge economy. Excluding them from the 485 visa program could result in a loss of invaluable talent and expertise, undermining Australia's competitive edge in global research and development.

Moreover, the abrupt nature of this policy change creates uncertainty and anxiety among current and prospective international students. It sends a message that Australia may not honor the expectations set when these students decide to invest in an Australian education. This could deter future students from choosing Australia as their study destination, leading to long-term negative impacts on the higher education sector and the broader economy.

Petition Request

They therefore ask the House to introduce a transition period for these laws to take effect. They propose that international students who had already arrived in Australia and begun their courses before the announcement of this policy change should be allowed to apply for the Graduate 485 visa up to the age of 50. This transition arrangement should remain in effect until these students complete their courses, ensuring that they are not unfairly disadvantaged by the sudden policy shift.

Implementing a transition period will provide these students with the necessary time to adjust their plans and fulfill their career objectives without abrupt disruptions. It will also uphold Australia's reputation as a fair and reliable destination for international students, ensuring that their significant contributions to the economy and society are recognized and valued.

In summary, the transition period will:

1. Prevent financial and emotional harm to current international students over 35.
2. Allow students to complete their skill assessments and obtain necessary licenses.
3. Ensure meaningful Australian work experience for career development.
4. Maintain Australia's reputation as a trustworthy destination for international education.
5. Retain highly talented PhD students and their contributions to the research and knowledge economy.
6. Encourage future international students to choose Australia, supporting the higher education sector and the economy.

They urge the House to consider this transition period to uphold fairness and support the international student community that plays a vital role in Australia's growth and development.