2025 Election: Australia’s Migration Program

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has called a federal election for May 3, 2025, with migration policies expected to be a central issue. The election will likely focus on balancing economic growth with infrastructure and housing challenges posed by current migration levels.

Australia’s migration policies are designed to attract skilled workers, support families, and contribute to the nation’s economic and social fabric.

With increasing pressure on housing affordability and infrastructure, migration has become a hotly debated topic.

The 2025 election provides an opportunity for a reset, with different parties offering varying approaches to managing migration levels and priorities.

Australia’s migration program focuses on skilled migration, family reunification, and humanitarian entrants.

The effectiveness of these policies is constantly under review, with adjustments made to respond to changing economic conditions and social needs.

Potential Policy Shifts and Their Impact on Skilled Migration

One of the most significant aspects of the election is the potential impact on skilled migration.

Skilled migrants play an important role in filling critical labour shortages and driving innovation across various sectors.

Depending on the election outcome, we could see changes to visa categories, eligibility criteria, and the overall number of skilled migrants welcomed each year.

• Potential changes to the Skills in Demand (SID) Visa (Subclass 482) could affect the types of occupations eligible and the requirements for employers sponsoring overseas workers.
• The Employer Nomination Scheme Visa (Subclass 186), with a pathway to permanent residency, might see adjustments to the eligibility criteria or the occupations included.
• Regional migration is a key focus, and changes to the Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional Visa (Subclass 494) could impact the incentives and requirements for skilled workers moving to regional areas.

From 1 July 2025, the indexation of skilled visa income thresholds will occur, ensuring that skilled migrants are fairly compensated and do not undercut Australian workers. This change reflects the government’s commitment to maintaining a fair and competitive labour market.

How the Election Could Affect Visa Options

Beyond skilled migration, the election outcome could also influence other visa options, including family and student visas.

• Family Visas: Changes to Spouse Visas for Australia and Contributory & Parent Visa Information could affect the requirements for sponsoring family members and the processing times for these visas.
• Student Visas: The Student Visa (Subclass 500) Information may see adjustments to eligibility criteria, post-study work rights, and the overall number of international students welcomed each year.
• Regional Migration: Regional migration schemes like the SkillSelect Skilled Regional Visa (Subclass 491) and Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) Visa (Subclass 191) could be subject to changes aimed at better supporting regional communities.
• The Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485), which allows international students to stay and work in Australia after graduation, could also be affected by policy changes.

Future Migration Changes

Given the potential for significant policy shifts, it’s important to prepare for future migration changes.

Here are some steps you can take:

• Keep up-to-date with the latest policy announcements and news related to migration.
• Evaluate your visa options based on your skills, qualifications, and personal circumstances.
• Consult with a registered migration agent to discuss your situation and develop a tailored migration strategy.

How This is Australia Can Assist You

As the 2025 election approaches, understanding the potential changes to Australia’s migration program is important. Whether you’re an individual seeking to migrate or a business sponsoring overseas workers, This is Australia is here to provide expert guidance and support.

Our team of experienced migration agents can provide personalised advice, assist with visa applications, and help you navigate complex migration matters.

For more information, feel free to reach out to us at This is Australia or call us at +61 (0)7 5592 0755.