Australia Study Visa 2026: More Student Visas, Higher Work Rights & a Clearer Future

When the world is tightening doors, Australia is quietly opening them wider.

At a time when global visa crackdowns, rising tuition costs, and geopolitical uncertainty are reshaping international education, Australia is taking a contrarian, student-first approach. Instead of restricting access, it is expanding opportunity — with more student visas, stronger work rights, and clearer post-study pathways.

For Indian students — especially those from Mumbai, Pune, and Hyderabad planning their 2026 intake — this is not just policy news. This is a strategic window.

What Is Changing in Australia for International Students in 2026?

• Australia will increase international student visas by 9%, taking total places to ~295,000 in 2026.
• Priority focus on students from South Asia, Southeast Asia, and Africa.
• Two-thirds of new visa allocations will go to universities, with the remainder supporting TAFE and vocational pathways.
• Universities are now required to demonstrate housing availability and promote regional enrolments.

Source: Australian Department of Education / Reuters

👉 Related read: Why Study in Australia? Complete Guide for Indian Students

Australia Work Rights Update 2026: 60 Hours per Fortnight

• From July 1, 2026, students can work 60 hours per fortnight (approx. 30 hours/week).
• Unlimited work hours during semester breaks.
• Postgraduate research students retain unrestricted work rights year-round.

This makes Australia one of the best ROI study destinations among English-speaking countries.

👉 Also read: Part-Time Jobs in Australia for International Students

Why This Matters for Indian Students

• Better ability to manage living costs.
• Early exposure to the Australian job market.
• Stronger employability for Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485).
• Clearer transition from student → work → PR.

👉 Must-read: Top In-Demand Jobs in Australia for Graduates (2026)

Economic Impact: Why Australia Is Betting on International Students

• Projected AUD 334 million in additional tax revenue by 2029.
• International education already supports 130,000+ jobs.
• Contributes AUD 32 billion annually to the economy.

This is not charity — it’s a long-term workforce and innovation strategy.

What Students Should Do Now (2026 Strategy)

Apply Early: Visa slots will fill fast. Universities and TAFEs are already forecasting higher demand.

Choose the Right City: Regional cities often offer extra migration points and lower living costs.

👉 Explore: Best Cities in Australia for Indian Students

Plan for PR Early: Course selection + city choice + job role alignment matter more than rankings alone.

👉 Read: How to Stay Back After Graduation Abroad

Frequently Asked Questions (Australia Study Visa 2026)

Is Australia increasing student visas in 2026?

Yes. Australia plans to increase international student visas by approximately 9%, reaching around 295,000 places.

How many hours can students work in Australia in 2026?

Students can work up to 60 hours per fortnight during semesters and unlimited hours during official breaks.

Is Australia better than Canada for Indian students in 2026?

Australia currently offers stronger work rights, faster employability, and clearer PR-linked study pathways compared to Canada.

Does Australia offer PR after studies?

Yes. Australia offers structured pathways via the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485), followed by skilled migration options.

Final Word: Australia Isn’t Just Open — It’s Evolving

Australia isn’t merely increasing visa numbers or extending work hours. It is redefining international education — treating students as contributors to society, not just fee-payers.

For Indian students planning 2026 intakes, this moment represents clarity in an otherwise uncertain global landscape.

Come not just for a degree — come to build a life.

Presented by IMFS — India’s leading global education consultancy since 1997.

Need personalised guidance?
Students from Mumbai, Pune, and Hyderabad can speak to an IMFS expert to plan their Australia 2026 journey strategically.