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Australia Still Wants You Here: What the 2025 Labor Win Means for International Students
- Seigfred Dequito
- May 8
- 4 min read
A Letter You Might Have Written
“Dear Australia, I want to study in your country. I’ve done my research. I know what I want to do, and I’m ready to work hard. I hope you’ll give me a chance.”
If that sounds like something you’ve written—or at least felt—you’re not alone.
Every year, hundreds of thousands of international students write their own versions of this dream. They gather documents, meet with education agents, apply to schools, and wait anxiously for a student visa decision that could change their lives.
But with news headlines about changing visa rules, stricter requirements, and political shifts in Australia, many are now wondering:
“Am I still welcome?”
Let’s talk about it—because the answer is yes. But with new expectations.
Why Australia Cares About International Students
Australia’s international education sector is not just a booming industry—it’s the country’s largest services export, valued at over $40 billion AUD. In 2024, more than 620,000 international students enrolled across Australia, contributing not only economically, but also socially and culturally.
Here’s where the numbers get even more interesting:
In 2024, international students made up 27% of all tertiary enrollments in Australia.
Students came from over 190 countries—led by India, China, Nepal, and the Philippines.
The Philippines saw a 53% increase in student visa applications compared to 2022, showing growing interest from Southeast Asia.
From regional towns to major cities like Melbourne and Sydney, international students play a vital role in Australia’s education system, workforce, and multicultural identity.
What the 2025 Australian Election Means
In May 2025, the Australian Labor Party (ALP), led by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, won a second term in office. For the international education sector, this is a continuation—not a reset—of existing policies aimed at improving the integrity, quality, and fairness of the student visa system.
Let’s break it down:
What’s Staying the Same:
Labor still supports international students as a key pillar of its migration and skills strategy.
Funding for education agents and visa processing has been increased, not reduced.
Australia remains open to genuine students who can show clear academic and post-study goals.
What’s Changing:
The Genuine Student (GS) requirement is replacing the older GTE (Genuine Temporary Entrant) statement.
English language requirements were raised in 2024 (IELTS 6.0 minimum for students, 6.5 for graduate visas).
Greater scrutiny is placed on students from countries classified as high-risk—including the Philippines, India, and Nepal.
Some lower-tier or “ghost” colleges are being reviewed or deregistered to prevent misuse of the system.
A Real Example: Filipino Students Caught in the Crossroads
Let’s talk about Maria, as an example. She is an 18 year old high school graduate from Cebu. She applied to study a Diploma of Mental Health in Melbourne through a lesser-known provider offering discounted tuition and free accommodation for three months.
She met all the requirements—on paper. But her visa was refused because:
The school was flagged as high-risk by immigration authorities.
Her Statement of Purpose lacked strong evidence of academic interest.
Her sponsor’s financial documents weren’t consistent.
This is not an isolated case. Many Filipino students—and other international students—faced visa refusals in late 2024 due to new integrity measures.
But here’s the good news: those who applied to reputable institutions, with clear documentation and authentic goals, still got through.
At Legacy Migration, we helped hundreds of students like Maria revisit their strategy: choose stronger schools, strengthen their narratives, and reapply successfully.
What the News Is Really Saying
Despite scary headlines, media coverage tells a more balanced story:
ABC News (May 2025): “Labor’s migration reform is not about fewer students, but better-supported students.”
The Guardian (Dec 2024): “The new strategy raises the bar for education providers, not students with strong academic purpose.”
The Conversation (Feb 2024): “Australia is not shutting the door on students—it’s keeping the door open for those who walk through with clarity and purpose.”
Legacy Migration Is HERE for You
We understand—the process can feel overwhelming, especially with evolving policies and stricter requirements. But you don’t have to face it alone. At Legacy Migration, we launched our HERE campaign to reflect the kind of support every international student deserves:
H – Honest: We give you the truth, even when it’s not the easiest answer. Transparency is our promise.
E – Established: With years of experience and trusted networks in both Australia and the Philippines, we know the system inside and out.
R – Responsive: We answer your questions, follow up on your concerns, and keep you updated at every step. You’re never left guessing.
E – Excellent: From the documents we review to the schools we recommend, we hold ourselves—and your future—to the highest standard.
At Legacy Migration, we don’t offer false guarantees or rush decisions. We offer a path you can trust, grounded in care, clarity, and commitment.
So, Are You Still Welcome in Australia?
Absolutely—if you’re a real student, with a real plan, and a real passion for learning.
Australia isn’t closing the door. It’s asking:
“Why do you want to come in?”
And if you can answer that with honesty, depth, and preparation—we at Legacy Migration will help you walk through that door.
Let’s talk. Whether you’re just starting your journey or reapplying after a visa refusal, we’re HERE to guide you.
Book your FREE consultation now
Let’s take the next step—together.
The information, updates, news, and advice provided are intended for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as personalised guidance. For accurate advice regarding your specific migration case, we invite you to reach out to us directly by sending a message through this link:
Migration Agents Registration Number: 1797357
QEAC Number: S041
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