Border Force to Crack Down on Visa Overstayers
Australia is set to tighten several migration rules, including changes affecting backpackers, international students and people who remain in the country after their visas expire.
Under changes to the Working Holiday Maker Program, applicants seeking second- and third-year visas will face a ballot system. They will also be required to complete work in regional areas.
The government will also introduce tighter rules for international students. Changes will aim to prevent “visa hopping” and restrict secondary visa applications for family members on most student visas.
Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke said the reforms are designed to make the migration system more targeted while addressing people who remain in Australia without valid visas.
Around 77,700 unlawful non-citizens are currently estimated to be in Australia, according to Department of Home Affairs figures. Australian Border Force will expand field operations to identify and deal with people who have overstayed or otherwise lost their lawful status.
Visitor visa rules will also be strengthened. A new No Further Stay condition will be introduced across visitor visas to ensure they are used for genuine short-term visits rather than as a pathway to longer stays.
The government will also update Ministerial Direction 119 to prioritise skilled migration applications in key areas, including healthcare, construction, education, law enforcement, defence, resources, agriculture, aquaculture and fishing.
The reforms come as the government works to reduce net overseas migration following the sharp increase seen after Australia’s COVID-19 border restrictions ended.
Labor says net overseas migration is being brought back towards its targeted levels while maintaining access to skilled workers needed across sectors such as healthcare, aged care and agriculture.
The government says the changes can be implemented through regulations rather than new legislation, allowing the measures to proceed without requiring parliamentary approval.
The reforms mark a significant adjustment to Australia’s migration settings, with greater emphasis on regional work, visa compliance and targeted skilled migration.
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Source : News.com
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