Planning to Move to Australia? Election 2025 May Decide Your Fate

As Australia heads into a critical federal election week, the topic of immigration policies is once again in the spotlight. With Australia immigration and visa programs playing a pivotal role in shaping the country’s economy and demographics, the political positions of the three major parties—Labor, Coalition, and the Greens—are now under scrutiny. Their proposals offer insight into the direction the nation may take concerning permanent migration, humanitarian support, and international student policies.

Significance of the Migration Program in the Federal Election

Migration Planning Levels and Economic Impact

Each party has laid out their vision for the 2025–26 permanent migration program. The Australian Labor Party (ALP) currently maintains the migration program at 185,000 for 2024/25, with no clarity yet for next year. The Coalition plans to reduce it progressively to as low as 140,000 in the short term, while the Greens prefer a flexible, needs-based approach.

These policy decisions directly affect Australia’s workforce, economic growth, and demographic balance. According to the Department of Home Affairs, a balanced migration program is critical in addressing skill shortages and supporting long-term prosperity.

Humanitarian Program Commitments

The Labor government has sustained its humanitarian program at 20,000 places for 2024/25. The Coalition proposes a reduction to 13,750 annually, while the Greens aim to significantly increase the intake to 50,000 per year. This variance reflects differing values around Australia’s role in offering refuge and support to those fleeing conflict or persecution.

International Student Visa Policy Shifts

International students are a key component of Australia’s immigration system and economy. The ALP plans to increase the primary student visa charge to $2,000 starting July 2025. The Coalition proposes even higher fees: $5,000 for Group of Eight university students and $2,500 for others, with an additional $2,500 for those changing education providers. The Greens, however, oppose capping international student numbers and lean toward more open education migration policies.

These policies not only influence the volume of students coming to Australia but also the financial feasibility of studying in the country, directly affecting institutions and the broader economy. For more detailed updates, refer to this breakdown on Australia’s new budget and skilled migrant policies.

Health, Disability, and Migration Law Reform

A recurring topic across all three parties is whether the Migration Act should continue to be exempt from the Disability Discrimination Act. Labor has committed to modernising the Disability Discrimination Act but has not explicitly committed to removing the exemption. The Coalition is taking a cautious approach, reviewing the recommendations of the Disability Royal Commission. The Greens have taken a definitive stance, calling for the complete removal of the exemption to end discrimination in the migration system.

The Future of the Significant Investor Visa

The ALP and the Greens both oppose the reintroduction of the Significant Investor Visa, which previously allowed wealthy individuals to fast-track their path to permanent residency. The Coalition, on the other hand, has indicated potential interest in reintroducing a similar visa category, subject to policy review.

These differing stances will shape the socio-economic profile of future migrants and affect investor-driven immigration flows.

Australia’s migration policies are at a crossroads, with each major political party offering a distinct vision for the country’s immigration future. Whether it’s changes to visa fees, shifts in humanitarian commitments, or reforms in how international students and people with disabilities are treated, the outcome of this election will significantly impact Australia’s migration landscape.

To understand how these evolving policies could affect your migration pathway or education prospects, we recommend scheduling a consultation with A2Zimmi’s expert advisors.

Stay informed, stay prepared—your future in Australia may depend on it.