One Nation Proposes Major Immigration Cuts, Targeting Student and Skilled Migrant Visas

In a bold move, One Nation has announced a sweeping immigration reform plan that aims to reduce the number of migrants entering Australia by 750,000 over the next three years. The proposal, which has raised eyebrows across the political spectrum, seeks to cap student visas and eliminate family reunification for skilled migrants.

Drastic Reductions Proposed

The plan would see student visa numbers slashed to approximately one-third of the current intake, dropping to just over 100,000 annual permits. In addition, One Nation aims to introduce a new visa category inspired by the U.S. 'genius visas,' targeting high-value students in science, engineering, and medical research. However, visas for families of international students and skilled migrants would be entirely eliminated, causing concern among critics about the long-term impact on communities and economies.

Political Reactions and Economic Concerns

Labor frontbencher Murray Watt has criticized the proposal, claiming it would devastate regional economies and potentially lead to a recession. He emphasized the need for migrant labor in various industries and described One Nation's approach as a reckless reaction to public sentiment. In response, One Nation leader Pauline Hanson argued that the high numbers of migrants were detrimental to Australians' living standards, asserting that a larger economy means little if everyday Australians cannot afford homes.

Future of International Education and Skilled Migration

Under the proposed changes, international student numbers would plummet from 590,000 to 350,000, while the opportunities for graduates seeking to remain in the country post-study would decrease significantly—from 270,000 to just 40,000. One Nation maintains that Australia will continue to welcome international students, but insists that educational quality must come first. The plan also includes prioritizing skilled migration for in-demand trades while implementing stricter controls over visa issuance for certain oversaturated fields.

Source: www.abc.net.au