Australia's 2026-27 Federal Budget has announced important migration-related changes that may affect future visa planning. The permanent Migration Program will remain at 185,000 places, with more than 70% allocated to skilled migrants, and the Government will prioritise onshore applicants across both the skill and family streams.
The Budget also confirms plans to reform the permanent migration system to select migrants who are considered better educated, higher-skilled, and younger, while also improving skills recognition to help address workforce shortages. An additional $85.2 million will be invested to speed up skills assessments and occupational licensing, with the aim of helping up to 4,000 additional skilled trades workers enter the workforce each year.
Other announced changes include expanded use of ballots in the Working Holiday Maker program, $27 million for migrant worker education on workplace protections and migration compliance, and $19.8 million for stronger scrutiny of student visa applications to support the integrity of the international student visa system.
The Budget also outlines future reform to the Adult Migrant English Program, with a new English-language support program planned from 2029 for migrants most in need of assistance.
If you would like to understand how these Budget changes may affect your visa options, skills assessment pathway, or migration plans, please contact Big Dream Education and Visa Services for professional guidance.
