International students in Australia are once again facing uncertainty, as both major political parties propose steep increases to student visa fees just ahead of the federal election on May 3. Less than a year after the fee was more than doubled from A$710 to A$1,600 in July 2024, the ruling Labor Party has announced plans to raise it further to A$2,000 if re-elected, with the change set to take effect this July.
This latest proposal comes as part of a broader strategy to manage post-pandemic migration growth, which has placed added strain on housing and infrastructure. According to Labor, the increased fee would generate A$760 million over the next four years, which the government says would help support the education system and strengthen immigration oversight.
Meanwhile, the opposition Coalition is proposing an even more aggressive fee structure, suggesting a base cost of A$2,500 for all student visa applicants, with a potential jump to A$5,000 for those applying to the country’s most prestigious universities, known as the Group of Eight.
These proposed changes are causing concern across the international education sector. Australia’s student visa costs already far exceed those in countries like the United States and Canada, where they are roughly US$185 and C$150 respectively. There is growing anxiety that these higher fees could discourage many potential students from choosing Australia as a study destination.
Industry observers are warning that such significant increases, particularly the opposition’s higher-end proposal, could have severe consequences for smaller education providers, especially those offering English language programs. There is a risk that rising costs may deter large numbers of students, undermining the country’s position in the competitive global education market.
With the election just days away, the future cost of studying in Australia remains uncertain. For international students considering their options, the outcome could have a significant impact on both their financial planning and long-term goals.
