What the Coalition Has Proposed

On 6 October 2026, Opposition Leader Angus Taylor announced the Coalition's new immigration policy, proposing significant restrictions on temporary visa holders changing visas while in Australia.

Under the proposal, temporary visa holders, including international students on Subclass 500 visas, would generally need to leave Australia to apply for a second or subsequent temporary visa.

This could significantly affect students planning to transition to work or other temporary visa pathways after graduation. However, the exact scope and exemptions have not yet been confirmed.

Key Elements of the Broader Coalition Immigration Plan

The Coalition's proposals include:

• Offshore visa applications: Restricting second and subsequent temporary visa applications made in Australia.
• Subclass 485: Abolishing the Temporary Graduate visa in its current form, with limited exceptions or alternative pathways for certain graduates.
• Student intake: Limiting international student commencements to 240,000 annually and international enrolments at universities to below 25%.
• Migration reduction: Reducing net overseas migration to 100,000 annually for the first two years, followed by 130,000 and 160,000.
• Other restrictions: Further tightening temporary visa arrangements, including bridging visas and student visa conditions.

Who Would Be Affected?

International students and temporary visa holders planning their next visa could face significant changes.

Those potentially affected include:

• Student visa holders planning to move to another temporary visa.
• Graduates considering post-study work pathways.
• Temporary visa holders seeking another temporary visa without leaving Australia.

The implications for employer-sponsored visas, partner visas and other pathways will depend on the final policy details and any exemptions.

Is This Law Yet?

No. The Coalition's proposals are not currently law.

The Coalition remains in opposition, and these proposals have not been implemented.

However, separate Student visa reforms introduced by the current Labor Government took effect on 2 October 2026. These already restrict most onshore applications for Subclass 500 visas and the inclusion of family members, subject to specified exemptions.

It is important to distinguish these existing rules from the Coalition's proposed further restrictions.

Practical Steps If You Are Currently on a Student Visa

1. Check your visa expiry date. Understand how much time you have to consider your next application.
2. Review your current options. Depending on your circumstances, employer-sponsored, skilled or partner visa pathways may be available.
3. Understand the risks of waiting. Visa eligibility, application requirements and policy settings can change.
4. Seek legal advice early. A migration lawyer can assess your circumstances and help you plan under the current rules.

Key Takeaways

• The Coalition proposes restricting onshore applications for second and subsequent temporary visas.
• The Subclass 485 visa could be abolished in its current form, with limited alternative arrangements proposed.
• These Coalition proposals are not law.
• Separate Student visa restrictions have already taken effect from 2 October 2026.
• Students approaching graduation or visa expiry should review their options early.

Planning Your Next Visa? Don't Leave It Too Late.

If you are currently on a Student Visa (Subclass 500) and hoping to stay in Australia after graduation, now is a good time to review your options.

At Riverwood Migration, our migration lawyers can assess your eligibility, identify available visa pathways and help you plan your next steps under current Australian migration law.

Sources:

• Coalition's Australia-First Migration Plan, October 2026
• Australian Government, Department of Home Affairs: Student Visa (Subclass 500)
• Study Australia: Student Visa Changes, October 2026

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.

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