A recent report by the Grattan Institute titled ‘Graduates in limbo: International student visa pathways after graduation’ delves into the situation of international graduates in Australia who remain on temporary visas after completing their studies. The report points out that Australia’s policy of offering generous post-study work rights can lead to false hope for many international graduates who struggle to secure permanent residency.
The findings of the report highlight that only half of these graduates secure full-time employment, most end up in low-skilled jobs, and around half earn less than $53,300 per year. Moreover, less than one-third of Temporary Graduate visa-holders transition to permanent residency when their visas expire, a significant decrease from two-thirds in 2014.
The Grattan Institute suggests several reforms, including reducing the duration of post-study work visas, raising English language requirements, limiting the age of Temporary Graduate visa-holders, and scrapping visa extensions for graduates in areas with job shortages or those living in regional areas.
The report aims to ensure Australia continues to attract top international students while improving the prospects of talented graduates to stay in the country.
These recommendations, if implemented, could reduce the number of graduates stuck in visa limbo and help enhance Australia’s attractiveness for international students.
