Australia to bar foreign students from bringing partners, children

Australia: Australia is a sovereign country in Oceania that manages its own immigration system with a focus on temporary visas for students, workers, and migrants. The government is advancing new restrictions to prevent foreign students from bringing partners or dependent children and to limit visa switching by temporary migrants. These measures are being detailed ahead of a key ministerial speech on reducing net overseas migration. One Nation: One Nation is a hard-right Australian political party that promotes an 'Australia first' approach to policy, particularly on immigration. The party has gained traction in recent polls and announced plans to sharply reduce temporary migrant numbers over several years. Its positions have drawn comparisons to U.S. President Donald Trump's policies and are pressuring the major parties on migration. Tony Burke: Tony Burke is Australia's Home Affairs Minister responsible for immigration and border policy. He is set to deliver a speech at the National Press Club outlining upcoming changes to student visas and migration rules. His office has not yet responded to inquiries about the reported policy shifts. Visa Rules: Spouses and partners of international students are currently allowed to work in Australia, with permitted hours varying by the student's course of study, and students may also bring dependent children under 18. Background Trend: Australia's migration intake, largely driven by international students, surged after borders reopened in early 2022 but has since trended lower amid concerns over housing, infrastructure, and social cohesion. Political Pressure: The hard-right One Nation party has proposed even stricter migration cuts, including slashing temporary migrants by 750,000 over three years and capping net overseas migration at 130,000 thereafter, amid rising poll support.