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Australia’s immigration policy could undergo major changes, with a proposal to restrict international students from bringing their spouses and children to the country.
The proposal has been put forward by the One Nation political party, which wants to end the existing provision allowing foreign students to bring family members under standard student visa arrangements, Reuters reported on Thursday, citing Australian media.
Under the proposal, international students would generally no longer be allowed to bring their spouses, partners or children to Australia. One Nation has instead proposed a new “high-value study visa” that could allow selected postgraduate and higher-level students to bring their families.
The proposed visa would apply only to specific courses considered directly important to Australia’s national interests, particularly fields where international expertise and skills are needed.
One Nation said genuine students who want to study important subjects in Australia should continue to have opportunities, but argued that the country’s international education and migration systems are being misused.
The proposal comes as the Australian government is also considering tighter immigration targets. ABC News reported that Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke is expected to announce on Thursday that the government aims to reduce net migration from around 300,000 currently to 225,000 by 2028.
Reuters said Burke’s office did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
One Nation has said it plans to reduce the number of temporary migrants by 750,000 over three years, describing the move as a way to give Australians more “breathing room”.
The party’s broader policy platform is centred on an “Australia First” approach. It plans to target net overseas migration of 130,000 a year after the initial three-year period, with the programme to be reviewed annually.
Australia reopened its borders in February 2022 after almost two years of Covid-19 restrictions. Migration subsequently surged, driven largely by international students, backpackers and temporary skilled workers.
Under current rules, spouses and partners of international students can work in Australia, although the permitted working hours vary depending on the student’s course. Students can also bring children under the age of 18.
