As of July 1, 2024, the visa fee for international students in Australia has doubled from AUD 710 to AUD 1600. Leaders in the international education sector warn that this move by the Australian government may deter students from applying to Australian universities, benefiting other study abroad destinations.
Home Affairs Minister Clare O’Neil stated that the policy aims to restore the integrity of Australia’s international education system and create a migration system that is fairer, smaller, and more effective for the country.
However, the Group of Eight, representing Australia’s leading research universities, criticised the decision, noting that Australia’s visa fees are now among the highest in the world. They pointed out that the current fee is more than double that of competitive nations and argued that increasing the non-refundable application fee to AUD 1600 sends a negative message.
Vicki Thomson, chief executive of the Group of Eight, stated that the measure would deter overseas students. “The recent crackdown on visa approvals has already sent a strong signal that we are not open for business,” she said.
Several other experts in the field of education have opposed the government’s decision. Professor Ly Tran from Deakin University expressed her dismay on LinkedIn, calling the move disheartening. IEAA CEO Phil Honeywood took to X (formerly known as Twitter) to voice his disbelief, stating, “This is exploiting young people.”
In April, multiple peak bodies in Australia urged the government not to heed the recommendation of the Grattan Institute to increase visa fees. Despite these warnings, the government proceeded with the fee hike, potentially impacting Australia’s attractiveness as a study abroad destination.
