Are you wondering what Labor’s 2025 election win means for Australia’s migration policies? Well, with their victory, some important changes are on the way. If you’re thinking about migrating to Australia, working, or studying here, understanding these policy changes is essential. Labor’s focus is on making sure the country has the right workers, particularly in skilled areas, and improving the way international students are treated. In this blog, we’ll take you through Labor’s migration policies and how they will shape the future of migration in Australia.
Please Note: This article serves as a general guide to help you understand the topic, with information accurate as of the publication date. We recommend consulting a registered migration agent or check The Department of Home Affairs for precise, up-to-date guidance tailored to your specific circumstances.
Understanding the Labor Party’s 2025 Migration Policies
After Labor’s win, we can expect some changes that will impact migration, especially skilled migration and international students. Let’s look at what their plans are and how they will affect you.
Labor’s General Immigration Approach:
Labor has always supported skilled migration to help address the skill shortages in Australia’s workforce. Their policies continue to focus on bringing in skilled workers who can contribute to Australia’s economy. Along with skilled migration, Labor also supports family reunification, allowing families to come together.
The Permanent Migration Cap for 2025:
For 2025, Labor has set the permanent migration cap at 185,000 places, which will be divided between:
- 70% for skilled migration (to fill workforce gaps in Australia)
- 30% for family migration (for family reunifications)
However, they have reduced the places available for the Skilled Independent visa, meaning that fewer workers can come in through this route. It’s part of Labor’s bigger plan to focus more on regional migration and certain sectors.
Labor is making skilled migration a priority, with a focus on helping Australia’s economy grow. But, as we’ll see, there’s more to these policies, especially with how Labor plans to adjust Australia’s skilled migration pathways and what this means for the country’s economy.
Key Changes to Skilled Migration Programs
Labor’s 2025 migration policies bring a fresh approach to skilled migration in Australia. Here’s what you need to know about the key changes.
1. Focus on Skilled Workers:
Labor plans to focus more on skilled migration to help meet Australia’s growing workforce needs. Many of Australia’s industries are struggling to fill job vacancies, and Labor’s policies are designed to attract the right skilled workers to fill these gaps.
2. Changes in Visa Programs:
There are a few important changes in the visa programs:
- Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189): Labor is cutting the number of places available for this visa, making it harder for some workers to come through this stream.
- Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491): This visa is being expanded to encourage skilled workers to move to regional areas of Australia. Labor wants to ease pressure on cities by directing more skilled workers to regional areas.
3. Skilled Migrant Points System:
Under Labor’s new policies, the points system for skilled migrants will give extra points to those who choose to live and work in regional areas. Some occupations will be targeted more than others, and more migrants will be encouraged to settle in areas outside of major cities.
4. Pathways to Permanent Residency:
Labor aims to make it easier for skilled workers to stay in Australia long term by offering clearer pathways to permanent residency. They want to attract migrants who will contribute to Australia’s workforce, especially in regional areas.
These changes show that Labor is committed to attracting skilled workers to fill gaps in Australia’s workforce. But, it’s not just skilled workers who will be impacted by these policies. Labor also has big plans for international students. Let’s see how their policies will affect you if you’re an international student.
Impact of Labor’s 2025 Migration Policies on International Students
Labor’s win also means big changes for international students in Australia. Here’s a breakdown of what their plans will mean for students coming to study in Australia.
1. Increased Student Visa Fees:
One of the first changes Labor plans to introduce is an increase in student visa application fees to AUD 2,000. This will raise a significant amount of money but could also discourage some students from applying. It’s an important factor to keep in mind if you’re thinking of studying in Australia.
2. Changes to Post-Study Work Visas:
Labor also has plans to tweak the Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485), which allows international students to work in Australia after completing their studies. If you graduate from a regional university, you may be eligible for an extra year of work rights. This is designed to encourage international students to stay in regional areas and help boost their local economies.
3. Regional Migration and Student Retention:
Labor is offering more incentives for international students to study in regional Australia. These incentives will help students settle in regional areas after they finish their studies, which could be a good opportunity if you’re looking for a quieter, less expensive place to live while still contributing to Australia’s workforce.
Labor’s policies provide plenty of opportunities for international students, especially those willing to live and work in regional areas. But their policies don’t just focus on students—they also address permanent residency options for skilled migrants. Let’s see how these changes could help you secure a permanent future in Australia.
Pathways to Permanent Residency for Skilled Migrants and International Students
Labor’s 2025 migration policies will provide several new pathways for skilled workers and international students to become permanent residents in Australia.
1. Labor’s Vision for Permanent Residency:
Labor is focused on helping skilled workers transition to permanent residency. They are prioritising migrants who live and work in regional areas, making it easier for them to stay in Australia long term. This is great news if you are planning to move to Australia for work.
2. Post-Study Work Rights for International Students:
If you’re an international student, Labor is extending post-study work rights for those who study in regional areas. Graduates will have more time to gain work experience, making it easier to contribute to Australia’s economy while continuing to build your career.
3. Opportunities for Regional Australia:
By prioritising regional migration, Labor is offering a pathway for skilled migrants and international students to contribute to local communities. Regional areas will benefit from an influx of talent, and migrants will have better opportunities to build their lives in less crowded areas.
Labor’s policies are making it easier for skilled migrants and international students to secure permanent residency, especially in regional areas. But while these changes bring many opportunities, they have also sparked some concerns. Let’s take a look at the criticisms and challenges that have been raised.
Criticisms and Challenges of Labor’s 2025 Migration Policies
While Labor’s 2025 migration policies have been met with some praise, there are also critics who have raised concerns about the impact these changes will have on Australia’s economy and society.
1. Concerns Over Labor Shortages:
Some critics worry that by cutting back on the number of Skilled Independent visas, Australia may face labour shortages in key sectors. Reducing visa places could leave industries without enough skilled workers, especially in high-demand fields.
2. Increased Student Visa Fees:
The increase in student visa fees has also raised concerns. Some believe it could deter international students from coming to Australia, particularly when compared to other countries that offer more affordable visa options.
3. Challenges of Regional Migration:
While Labor’s policies aim to encourage more people to settle in regional areas, some critics are concerned that these areas might not be ready for an influx of new migrants. Issues like infrastructure, housing, and local job markets could become strained if the migration flow isn’t managed effectively.
Despite the criticisms, Labor’s policies provide a clear direction for Australia’s migration future, focusing on skilled migration, international students, and regional growth.
Final Thoughts
Labor’s 2025 migration policies bring exciting opportunities for skilled workers and international students who are looking to contribute to Australia’s economy, especially in regional areas. With a focus on providing pathways to permanent residency and extending post-study work rights, these changes are designed to strengthen Australia’s workforce and help regional areas thrive.
If you’re planning to migrate, study, or work in Australia under these new policies, staying informed about these changes is essential. If you need personalised advice or assistance with your visa application, Knowbal is here to help. Our experienced migration agents can guide you through the application process and ensure you meet all the requirements.
Contact us today to start your journey towards a successful migration experience in Australia!