Calls to slash student visas as migration reset looms

International students pump billions of dollars into Australia's economy each year, but their future numbers could soon be significantly reduced as federal politicians push for a sweeping migration overhaul.

With the Albanese government in the final stages of setting new migration targets, the Coalition and One Nation have both identified international student visa numbers as a key area for cuts. The pressure signals a likely tightening of the pathway that has made Australia one of the world's top destinations for overseas study.

Australia hosts more than 600,000 international students annually, with universities, vocational colleges and English-language providers collectively generating tens of billions in export income. Critics, however, argue the program has grown beyond its original educational purpose and contributed to pressure on housing, infrastructure and the labour market.

The Opposition has framed its position as part of a broader push to reduce net overseas migration, which hit record levels in recent years following the post-pandemic reopening of borders. One Nation leader Pauline Hanson has gone further, calling for sharp reductions across multiple visa categories, including the family stream.

Family migration is also in the crosshairs, with debate intensifying over the balance between humanitarian, economic and family reunion visa allocations within the overall migration program. Critics of the current settings say the family stream has expanded at the expense of skilled worker intake, while advocates argue it plays a vital role in keeping communities together.

The government has signalled it intends to bring net migration figures back toward historical norms after the post-COVID surge, but has stopped short of committing to the deep cuts demanded by crossbench and opposition MPs.

Meanwhile, separate news out of Canberra: the federal government has launched a new national anti-bullying advertising campaign. The campaign, which begins airing tonight, targets bullying across schools and workplaces and is part of a broader mental health and respectful behaviour initiative.