Australia's migration policy churn is scaring off skilled workers
Industry leaders told parliament that repeated changes to student visas, working holiday schemes and graduate visas are making Australia look unstable.
Industry leaders told a parliamentary inquiry Friday that Australia's constantly shifting migration rules damage the country's ability to attract talent. Builders, aged-care workers and educators fronted the probe.
Universities Australia boss Luke Sheehy said Australia needs some certainty and stability. Tinkering with rules sends a bad signal overseas.
The government announced reforms to student visas and working holiday schemes. Universities worry the ban on students and graduates bringing families will hurt regional campuses.
Working holiday visa numbers are being cut sharply. Second-year visas drop from 57,000 to 45,000.
Third-year visas fall from 31,000 to just 5,000. Tasmania's Premier warned fruit will rot on vines without backpackers to pick crops.
This affects jobs in packing, transport and marketing.
- 57,000 to 45,000
- Second-year visas
- 31,000 to 5,000
- Third-year visas
- Luke Sheehy
- Universities Australia chief
- Jeremy Rockliff
- Tasmanian Premier
Why it mattersSkilled worker shortages could leave Australian farms, care homes and universities struggling to fill jobs and find talent they need.
AustraliaRegional areas particularly will feel the sting if fewer backpackers and international students arrive, with real impact on agriculture, aged care and university funding.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 6 d ago
