Starting this week, Australia will impose stricter visa requirements for international students in an effort to address the nation's record-high migration numbers, which are placing more strain on the rental market. Official statistics show a sharp increase in migration, which led the government to tighten the English language proficiency standards for graduate and student visas. Authorities will also have the authority to suspend educational institutions if they are discovered to be breaking regulations pertaining to the recruitment of international students. Home Affairs Minister Clare O'Neil emphasized that these measures are part of efforts to lower migration levels while addressing shortcomings in the existing system. A new "genuine student test" will be introduced to deter students primarily seeking work opportunities in Australia. Furthermore, "no further stay" conditions will be applied to more visitor visas to discourage extended stays. Last year, the government took steps to revoke COVID-era concessions, including unrestricted working hours for international students, with the intention of halving migrant intake over two years. The surge in migration, prompted by the easing of border controls after the pandemic, has strained the rental market, exacerbating existing housing shortages. Australian Bureau of Statistics data revealed a 60% increase in net immigration to a record 548,800 individuals in the year ending September 30, 2023, surpassing the previous year's figures. This influx, primarily driven by students from Bangladesh, India, China, and the Philippines, has expanded the labour pool and tempered wage pressures but intensified housing challenges. Minister O'Neil noted a decline in migration levels following government actions, with recent international student visa grants down by 35% compared to the previous year. These regulatory changes aim to balance migration levels while addressing housing and labour market pressures in Australia.