How Australia became the go-to destination for international students

Monday 10 August 2026

The 2011 Knight Review strongly advocated expanding post-study work rights (PSWR) to significantly boost Australia’s appeal as a destination for international students and to help Australian universities and employers. The Gillard Labor government significantly enhanced employment rights for graduate (485) visas in 2013.

In particular, 485 visa holders are not required to meet skills shortage requirements and may stay in Australia for up to four years after finishing their studies, compared with the prior 18 months.

Australia’s graduate (485) visas are among the most appealing worldwide, granting full employment rights, and are highly coveted by international students as a path to permanent residency. Australian immigration rules permit international students and graduates to bring family members, with spouses permitted to work legally for up to 48 hours a fortnight.

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About the author

Leith van Onselen is Chief Economist at the MB Fund and MB Super. He is also a co-founder of MacroBusiness. Leith has previously worked at the Australian Treasury, Victorian Treasury and Goldman Sachs.