Story perspectives

Tony Burke Targets 225,000 Net Migration by 2028

By Drooid · Sep 19, 2026, 12:42 AM UTC · How we work

Summary

Story summary

Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke announced a plan to cut net overseas migration to 225,000 by 2028.
The plan will introduce a ballot for working-holiday visas, slashing second-year places from about 31,000 to 5,000.
International student visas will no longer permit most family members, except for PhD candidates.
Coalition leader Angus Taylor said the government allows a new arrival every 78 seconds and cuts are insufficient.

History

Historical Context

Whitlam’s 1973 reforms ended racial criteria and expanded migration targets, spurring the post-war influx that topped 6.5 million arrivals by 2010. Today Labor minister Tony Burke proposes a 225,000 cap for 2028, while Liberal MP Angus Taylor warns arrivals occur every 78 seconds. The shift revives debate over population growth and housing pressure.

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Story summary

Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke announced a plan to cut net overseas migration to 225,000 by 2028.
The plan will introduce a ballot for working-holiday visas, slashing second-year places from about 31,000 to 5,000.
International student visas will no longer permit most family members, except for PhD candidates.
Coalition leader Angus Taylor said the government allows a new arrival every 78 seconds and cuts are insufficient.

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