Tony Burke’s Student Visa Overhaul: $1,200 Fee and 12-Month Transfer Ban Start October 2

Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke’s student visa overhaul takes effect October 2, 2026, imposing a $1,200 fee for course changes and a 12-month transfer restriction on most international students. The government is cracking down on visa hopping, where students enrol in easier or cheaper courses to extend their stay. The changes are part of a broader plan to cut net overseas migration to 245,000 this financial year and 225,000 by 2027-28.

What changes start today

International students outside the school sector now face a 12-month restriction before transferring to another provider, up from six months. This rule runs until June 30, 2027, when it reverts to six months. Students wishing to change courses must pay approximately $1,200 for a new visa. Students can only move to a higher-level course than their current one, closing the loophole that allowed downward transfers to cheaper qualifications.

The catch for students already enrolled

Students who have completed more than six months but less than 12 months of their principal course before October 2 face an unexpected restriction. A student previously free to transfer immediately after six months may now be locked in until they complete 12 months total. The government’s explanatory statement flags this scenario as the most significant practical detail in the change.

Broader measures targeting visa abuse

The government suspended private colleges from applying to offer new courses to international students and stopped new student and graduate visa holders from bringing family members. Migration lawyers and agents encouraging baseless claims are now targeted as part of the crackdown. Assistant Minister Julian Hill announced the details in Sydney on Friday.

Industry and political divide

Universities and education groups warn the changes could damage a major export industry. Burke argues the measures restore integrity to the student visa system. Supporters say course hopping abuses the system and pushes up housing demand. Critics counter that students often change courses for legitimate reasons and that rigid rules punish genuine learners.

Final Thoughts

The October 2 changes represent a significant tightening of student visa rules aimed at cutting migration numbers. Existing students caught between the old and new thresholds face unexpected restrictions, while universities brace for reduced international enrolments and revenue.

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