Just A Click Away.
Labor's Migration Reform: The 225,000 Net Migration Target Explained
On 17 September 2026, Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke addressed the National Press Club and announced the Australian Government’s next stage of migration reform.
A key objective of the reform package is to reduce net overseas migration (NOM) from recent high levels towards a forecast of 225,000 people in 2027-28.
Rather than introducing a new migration cap, the Government will use existing regulatory powers, including changes to visa conditions, processing priorities and application settings, to manage migration levels.
For current visa holders and future applicants, these changes may affect how families join visa holders, how temporary visas are extended, and how onshore visa pathways are used.
Why Regulation Instead of Legislation?
The Government initially explored legislative changes as part of its broader migration reform agenda. However, negotiations with the Opposition did not result in an agreement.
As a result, the Government is proceeding mainly through administrative and regulatory measures, including adjustments to visa requirements and application processes.
This means many changes can be introduced through updated policy settings without requiring new legislation to pass through Parliament.
Key Change: International Students and Family Members
One of the most significant announced changes relates to international student visa holders and secondary applicants.
The Government plans to introduce tighter restrictions on international students bringing partners and family members to Australia during their studies. Details, including any exemptions and implementation dates, are expected to be released by the Department of Home Affairs.
Importantly, the reform is focused on secondary applicants rather than reducing the overall number of student visas available.
For international students who are considering bringing family members to Australia, it is important to understand how the upcoming changes may affect future applications.
Ministerial Direction 119 and Skilled Visa Processing
Separate from the latest announcement, Ministerial Direction 119 has changed the way skilled visa applications are prioritised.
The Direction places greater emphasis on Government priorities, including certain occupations, locations and applicant circumstances. Processing outcomes may vary depending on each applicant’s profile, and some applicants may experience longer waiting periods.
Skilled visa applicants should carefully consider current processing priorities when planning their migration pathway.
Working Holiday Maker Program Changes
The Government has also announced changes affecting the Working Holiday Maker (WHM) program as part of broader efforts to manage temporary migration levels.
Further reforms are expected to affect pathways for second and third year Working Holiday Maker visas, including additional selection and eligibility requirements.
Applicants planning future WHM extensions should monitor updates from the Department of Home Affairs and review their eligibility before making plans.
Temporary Visas: Who May Be Affected?
The Government’s reform agenda focuses particularly on temporary migration pathways, including:
- International students seeking to bring family members to Australia;
- Temporary visa holders seeking to extend their stay;
- Applicants considering switching visa pathways while in Australia;
- Visa holders relying on future policy settings to remain in Australia.
Further details will be released as the Department implements the announced reforms.
What This Means for Different Visa Holders
International students (primary applicants)
Student visa numbers remain unchanged, but new restrictions on family members may affect future applications.
Student dependants (secondary applicants)
Tighter requirements are expected, with further details pending.
Skilled visa applicants
Processing priorities have changed under Ministerial Direction 119, and applicants should consider current requirements and timelines.
Working Holiday Makers
Additional requirements may apply to future second and third year visa pathways.
Temporary visa holders seeking extensions or visa changes
Future onshore options may become more restricted depending on the final implementation measures.
Regional Concerns
The reforms have also attracted concerns from some regional representatives, who have highlighted the importance of temporary migrants in supporting regional workforce needs.
The Government will need to balance migration reduction objectives with ongoing labour demand across different industries and regions.
What Should Visa Holders and Prospective Applicants Do Now?
- Review your current visa conditions, expiry dates and future migration options.
- If you are an international student planning to bring your partner or children to Australia, seek professional advice before lodging any application.
- If you are considering a skilled visa pathway, review how current processing priorities may affect your timeline.
- If you are currently on a temporary visa and planning an extension or visa change, obtain advice before making decisions based on previous arrangements.
- Continue monitoring official updates from the Department of Home Affairs as new measures are implemented.
Key Takeaways
- Australia’s Government has announced a migration reform agenda targeting a reduction in net overseas migration towards 225,000 people in 2027-28.
- The reforms will primarily be implemented through regulatory changes rather than new legislation.
- International students are expected to face tighter restrictions on bringing family members to Australia.
- Skilled visa processing priorities have changed under Ministerial Direction 119.
- Temporary visa holders should review their options early as future pathways may become more regulated.
- Applicants affected by these reforms should seek professional advice before making important visa decisions.
The content of this article is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration law is complex and subject to change. The information provided may not reflect the most current legal developments. For advice specific to your circumstances, please consult a registered Australian migration lawyer. For full terms governing use of this website and its content, please refer to our Website Terms and Conditions.
Speak with a Riverwood Migration Lawyer
As a regulated Australian migration law practice, Riverwood Migration provides precise, personalised advice on visa strategy, compliance, and application preparation. Speak with our expert legal team. Book a consultation to discuss your circumstances.
Stay Informed on Australian Immigration Law
- YouTube: Johnny Kong | Migration Lawyer
- Instagram: @johnny_migrationlawyer
- Facebook: Riverwood Migration
- TikTok: @johnny_migrationlawyer
- Linktree: linktr.ee/johnny_lawyer
