Big Update: Australia student visa work rights & intake changes

Australia is preparing to introduce significant reforms to its international education framework, aiming to offer greater work flexibility for students while restructuring overall student intake numbers. According to the Australian Parliamentary Budget Office (PBO), the government has proposed policy changes that could reshape the study and work landscape for international students in the coming years.

Increase in Student Work Hours Proposed

One of the key proposals includes expanding work rights for international students during academic terms.

Under the new proposal, the work limit is expected to increase from 48 hours to 60 hours per fortnight during study periods. If approved, this change is proposed to take effect from 1 July 2026.

This adjustment would allow students to work an average of 30 hours per week during term time, offering greater flexibility in managing living expenses and financial commitments.

Estimated Additional Earnings

With the increased work limit, students could benefit financially through:

• An additional 12 working hours per fortnight
• Approximately AUD 600 or more extra income per month
• Potential additional earnings of up to AUD 7,000 or more annually

The increased earning capacity is expected to support students living in major Australian cities such as Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Perth, where living costs are relatively higher.

Proposed Reduction in New Student Visa Numbers

Alongside increased work flexibility, the government has also proposed reducing the number of new international student visas issued each year.

The PBO estimates suggest a reduction of approximately 240,000 fewer student visas annually compared to earlier projections.

Expected Impact of Visa Reduction

The proposed cap aims to:

• Strengthen the focus on genuine and high-quality students
• Introduce stricter visa scrutiny
• Increase competitiveness in the application process
• Emphasise financial stability and academic credibility among applicants

Current Policy Status

At present, the official work restriction remains 48 hours per fortnight during academic sessions.

The proposed increase to 60 hours and the student visa cap are policy proposals and have not yet been enacted into law. Final implementation will depend on government approval and legislative processes.

Future Outlook for International Students

These proposed reforms indicate a shift in Australia’s international education strategy toward:

• Fewer but academically stronger student intakes
• Greater employment flexibility during studies
• Increased economic contribution from international students
• Long-term sustainability of the education sector

Education experts suggest that the changes could benefit serious and well-prepared students by creating better earning opportunities alongside structured migration controls.

Advice for Students Planning 2025–2026 Intakes

Prospective students are advised to:

• Prepare strong academic documentation
• Demonstrate financial capability
• Stay updated with official immigration announcements
• Plan study and work strategies carefully

Further updates are expected once the Australian government confirms and implements the proposed reforms.