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3w ago

Coalition Proposes 240,000 Cap on International Students with Higher Visa Fees

Peter Dutton argues the policy will ease housing pressures, but experts dispute links between student numbers and rental costs.

University students walk on the campus of University of Sydney following a graduation ceremony in Sydney.
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Peter Dutton says a reduction in foreign students would help Australians "afford homes again", by bringing down the cost of living.

Overview

  • The Coalition has pledged to limit annual international student enrolments to 240,000 if elected, 30,000 fewer than Labor's previously proposed cap.
  • Public universities would be restricted to 115,000 international students annually, while private institutions and vocational providers could enrol up to 125,000.
  • Visa application fees would rise to $5,000 for Group of Eight universities and $2,500 for other institutions, with a $2,500 fee for students changing education providers.
  • Peter Dutton claims the measures aim to address housing affordability for Australians, particularly in major cities like Sydney and Melbourne.
  • Research and experts, including a University of South Australia study, find no direct correlation between international student numbers and rental prices.