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Tony Burke Announces Temporary Visa Reforms to Curb Migration

By Drooid · Sep 17, 2026, 12:42 AM UTC · How we work

Summary

Story summary

Affairs Minister Tony Burke announced temporary-visa reforms to reduce net overseas migration.
The plan targets the 400,000-plus bridging-visa backlog and bans 45,991 student family members for 2025-26.
Burke aims to cut net overseas migration to 225,000 by 2028, warning 130,000 visa cuts could close regional hospitals.
One Nation proposes cutting 750,000 student-family visas in three years.
Environment Minister Murray Watt warns the cuts could cause a recession.

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Story summary

Affairs Minister Tony Burke announced temporary-visa reforms to reduce net overseas migration.
The plan targets the 400,000-plus bridging-visa backlog and bans 45,991 student family members for 2025-26.
Burke aims to cut net overseas migration to 225,000 by 2028, warning 130,000 visa cuts could close regional hospitals.
One Nation proposes cutting 750,000 student-family visas in three years.
Environment Minister Murray Watt warns the cuts could cause a recession.