How the 2025 Australian Election Results Will Affect MigraNTS?

CHLOE CRAWFORD
May 14
2 min read

Following the 2025 federal election, the Australian Labor Party has secured another three-year term in office. For many, this promises stability in migration policies—but it also signals tighter controls on student and temporary visas.

What’s Changing for Student Visas?

The government is continuing with its migration strategy announced in December 2024, which prioritises skilled worker visas while introducing more scrutiny for temporary and student visa applicants.

📌 Key changes to student visas starting from 1 July 2025:

The student visa application fee will increase from AUD 1,600 to AUD 2,000.
English language requirements will be tightened. (Details pending.)
Genuine applicant checks will be stricter and more detailed.

Although no official student visa cap has been introduced, these changes aim to reduce overall application numbers by increasing selectivity.

💬 But don’t panic! Australia’s migration laws have always evolved with national needs. These changes are not the end—just an adjustment. With the right guidance, they can still be navigated smoothly and strategically.

What About Other Visas?

Beyond student visas, the government is also reviewing and updating policies for skilled and employer-sponsored migration:

📌 491 Regional Visa: Review of eligibility requirements, including partner work experience points and NAATI language credentials.📌 Rural employers: May benefit from lower sponsorship fees and more flexibility around skill assessment for certain industries.📌 Processing delays remain a concern for skilled migration visas:

Permanent Employer Sponsored Visas: Currently taking up to 18 months to process.
Temporary Skill Shortage (SC 482): Averages 6–9 months.
Skills in Demand (SC 482): Currently 46–84 days, with a government target of reducing this to 7–14 days.

Australia’s Migration Strategy by the Numbers

🔹 2024–2025 Permanent Migration Cap: 185,000🔹 Around 72% of this allocation is reserved for skilled migrants🔹 In response to the housing crisis in major cities, the government is actively encouraging relocation to regional areas.

Regional Australia: A Smart Opportunity

Once seen as a temporary step, regional migration is now an attractive long-term opportunity. Why?

Cities like Perth, Adelaide, and the Gold Coast are included in the regional definition.
DAMA agreements and state-based occupation lists offer flexibility and access to priority visa pathways.

By targeting regional areas, applicants can benefit from:✅ Lower competition✅ More flexible assessment and sponsorship criteria✅ A stronger pathway to permanent residency

Final Thoughts: Strategy = Success

With 185,000 permanent places available annually, a well-planned strategy can turn opportunity into reality.

🧭 Remember: Migration isn’t a race—it’s a strategic journey. Those who understand and manage the process wisely are the ones who succeed.

If you're unsure where you stand or what the changes mean for you, our expert migration team is here to help. We simplify complex laws and offer tailored advice based on your situation.

✉️ Ready to start your journey? Contact us today | https://www.empathymigration.com/services

Ozge Chloe CRAWFORD

MARN: 2518721