Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 02:07pm on 17 Sep 2026,Thursday International
Australia has announced plans to prevent most international students from bringing partners and dependent children with them while studying, as part of a broader immigration crackdown. Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke said the government aims to reduce net overseas migration to 225,000 by 2028. Existing families already in Australia will not be separated under the changes. Exemptions will apply to students from Pacific and Southeast Asian countries and those enrolled in certain courses, including PhD programs. The government will also tighten rules on temporary migrants switching visas. International education contributes significantly to Australia’s economy, while universities have raised concerns about the impact on overseas student demand. (PC: AP)
