The fee rise, which took effect on March 1, applies to the Subclass 485 visa \u2013 a popular pathway that allows international students to live and work in Australia after completing their studies.<\/p>\n
The increase was introduced without prior warning to the sector, prompting criticism from the Council of Australian Postgraduate Associations<\/a> (CAPA). The organisation said the sudden change places an \u201cunfair financial burden\u201d on international graduates.<\/p>\n \u201cDoubling the Temporary Graduate visa fee overnight sends a clear message that international graduates are being treated as revenue sources rather than valued contributors to Australia\u2019s workforce and society,\u201d said CAPA national president, Jesse Garden-Russell.<\/p>\n Graduates finish their studies hoping to gain work experience here, contribute to their fields, and build networks \u2013 not to be hit with unpredictable, punitive cost \u201cGraduates finish their studies hoping to gain work experience here, contribute to their fields, and build networks \u2013 not to be hit with unpredictable, punitive costs.\u201d<\/p>\n Qiuming Zhang, CAPA international student officer, also commented on the decision: \u201cSudden and significant policy shifts of this nature risk undermining Australia\u2019s reputation as a stable and reliable education destination. Over time, this may affect international education partnerships, diplomatic relationships, and long-term economic competitiveness.\u201d<\/p>\n A recent survey by CAPA\u2019s member organisation of around 8,500 postgraduate students at the University of Melbourne found that work opportunities are a key priority for international students, with 55% citing difficulty finding work as a major issue, compared with 32% of domestic students. <\/p>\n The survey also identified a lack of career support as the biggest study-related concern (28%), underscoring strong demand for employability initiatives and reflecting international students\u2019 desire to transition into skilled migration.<\/p>\n \u201cAustralia\u2019s society centres around the fair go. We are meant to be a country which gives a leg up to battlers to help them succeed,\u201d added Gardner-Russell.<\/p>\n \u201cThe Australian job market is already seen to be exclusionary to temporary migrants trying to transition to skilled work, as many employers require permanent residency for graduate positions.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cIn a period where the job market is already tough for our international students, doubling the cost of their ticket to play, the 485 Temporary Graduate Visa means that those who have already integrated into Australian society and want to contribute to growing our economy, will be unable to participate.\u201d<\/p>\n Australia is also home to the world\u2019s highest study visa fee<\/a> \u2013 sitting at $2,000 since a hike in July 2025.<\/p>\n
Jesse Garden-Russell, CAPA<\/p>\n