Coalition Announces Major Migration Cuts

On 6 October 2026, Opposition Leader Angus Taylor announced the Coalition's proposed migration reforms, including plans to halve Australia's humanitarian visa intake and significantly reduce the number of bridging visa holders.

Under the proposal, net overseas migration (NOM) would fall to 100,000 annually for the first two years, before increasing to 130,000 in the third year and 160,000 in the fourth.

These are Coalition policy proposals, not changes to current Australian migration law.

What the Coalition Is Proposing

The key proposals include:

• Humanitarian Visas: Halve the annual permanent humanitarian program from 20,000 to 10,000 places.
• Bridging Visas: Reduce the number of bridging visa holders from approximately 414,000 to 20,000.
• Offshore Applications: Require many temporary visa holders seeking a subsequent visa to leave Australia and apply offshore, subject to proposed exceptions.
• Temporary Migration: Reduce temporary migration numbers by approximately 650,000 over four years.
• Skilled Migration: Introduce 15,000 Skilled Project Visa places annually to support major projects.

Humanitarian Visas: What Could Change?

The Coalition proposes reducing Australia's annual permanent humanitarian intake by 50%, from 20,000 to 10,000 places.

This could significantly reduce opportunities for people seeking humanitarian resettlement in Australia.

However, the proposed reduction does not automatically mean that existing onshore Protection Visa applications would be refused or cancelled. The precise implications for onshore applicants would depend on any future legislation and implementation arrangements.

Bridging Visas: A Major Proposed Change

One of the most significant proposals targets Australia's bridging visa population.

The Coalition intends to require many temporary visa holders to apply for subsequent visas from outside Australia, rather than remaining onshore while awaiting a decision.

This could substantially affect applicants relying on bridging visas to maintain lawful status during visa processing.

However, the proposal does not establish that all bridging visas would be abolished. Detailed rules, exemptions and transitional arrangements have not been finalised.

Migration and Housing Pressures

The Coalition has linked its migration reduction targets to concerns about housing availability, infrastructure and public services.

The proposal also aims to prioritise skilled migration, particularly workers needed for construction and major projects.

However, the broader economic effects of these measures remain subject to debate.

What This Means for Visa Applicants

No changes under this Coalition proposal have taken effect. Current visa applications continue to be assessed under the applicable existing laws and regulations.

Nevertheless, applicants should consider potential future policy risks, particularly if they:

• Currently hold a Bridging Visa.
• Plan to apply for another visa while remaining in Australia.
• Have a pending or planned Protection Visa application.
• Rely on a temporary visa pathway for their longer-term migration plans.

Understanding your current visa conditions, eligibility and lawful options is essential before making decisions about your future in Australia.

Key Takeaways

• The Coalition proposes halving the humanitarian intake to 10,000 places annually.
• Bridging visa numbers could be substantially reduced through tighter onshore application arrangements.
• Many subsequent temporary visa applications could be required to be lodged offshore.
• These are proposals only. Current visa laws remain applicable.

Concerned About Your Visa Pathway?

If you currently hold a bridging visa, are considering an onshore visa application, or have concerns about your protection or humanitarian visa options, now is a sensible time to review your circumstances.

At Riverwood Migration, our migration lawyers can assess your current visa position, explain your options under existing law and help you prepare for potential future changes.

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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