On Tuesday morning, the Australian government confirmed that the permanent migration program will stay at 185,000 places for 2025–26, the same as last year.
This means the number of people who can move to Australia permanently through skilled, family, or humanitarian visas will not change. There will be a focus on skilled migration.
What this means for international students
No change to permanent visas: The number of skilled migration spots, family visas, and other permanent visas will stay the same.
Confusion around numbers: Some people say migration is at record highs, but official figures show net overseas migration (which includes temporary visas like students) has already dropped compared to the post-pandemic peak.
Focus on balance: The government says it wants migration to stay stable, so that the benefits for the economy are matched by enough housing and infrastructure.
Why it matters for you
If you’re studying in Australia, this decision means things will stay stable. Permanent migration numbers are not being cut, but they’re also not going up. Skilled and family pathways remain open at the same level.
This story is still developing – we will provide details as they come.