The 2025 federal election has signalled some major changes to Australia’s immigration landscape. With Prime Minister Anthony Albanese securing a second term, the Labor government is set to introduce reforms to student visa while ensuring net permanent migration remains steady.

Permanent Migration Intake in 2025: What’s Changing?

One of the most discussed immigration topics in the 2025 election was the annual permanent migration cap. The Labor government has maintained this cap at 185,000 migrants per year, emphasizing the importance of skilled migration to meet economic needs.

In contrast, the opposition Coalition proposed reducing the intake to 140,000—a 25% cut aimed at easing pressure on housing demand. However, experts have noted that such a cut may have minimal impact, as many migrants are already in Australia on other visas. Those intending to migrate to Australia, particularly through parent visas (an at risk category for visa cuts) are breathing a sigh of relief this week.

International Student Visas: Fee Hikes and Enrolment Caps

International education is one of Australia’s largest export sectors, but it’s also become a focal point in debates about net overseas migration.

The Albanese government plans to:

• Increase student visa fees from $1,600 to $2,000
• Cap new international student enrolments at 270,000 in 2025

These changes are designed to better regulate the international education sector while easing infrastructure pressure.

The Coalition’s alternative proposal was even stricter, suggesting:

• A 240,000 student enrolment cap
• Visa fee hikes up to $5,000 for top-tier universities

The Department of Home Affairs (DHA) has yet to announce when the student visa fees and new international student cap will commence. It is likely that these will take place from 1 July 2025.

What the 2025 Election Means for Australia’s Migration Future

The re-election of a Labor government signals a preference for balanced, regulated immigration policy. The focus remains on:

• Skilled migration to support economic growth
• A sustainable international education sector

Going forward, the challenge for the Albanese government lies in implementing reforms that promote long-term prosperity while maintaining the ability of employers to access skilled workers particularly those in regional and remote Australia.