Pressures on Short‑Term Study Providers
- Since July 1, 2024, the Australian government raised the Subclass 500 student visa fee from AUD 710 to AUD 1,600—then proposed another increase to AUD 2,000 by mid‑2025
- This steep climb (nearly 3× the original cost in under a year) is hitting short‑term sectors hard—especially ELICOS (English language courses), non‑award programs, and \”learning abroad\” schemes, where the cost-to-student ratio is less sustainable
- Providers report enrollment drops, program closures, and diminished international interest from emerging markets
Sector Leadership Speaks Out
- Phil Honeywood (International Education Association of Australia) has warned that the high fees are \”killing\” ELICOS, noting several providers have already shut down
- Felix Pirie (ITECA) highlights how the AUD 400 fee hike deters students from Southeast Asia and South America from upskilling via short courses
Proposed Fee Relief
- Leaders are lobbying for separate, reduced visa fees (~AUD 1,000) for short‑term study pathways—ELICOS, non‑award courses under 12 months, and academic exchange programs
- Submissions are under review ahead of The PIE Live Asia Pacific conference (July 29–30). Final government feedback expected by January 1, 2026
- To balance revenue, adjustments like provider-transfer fees or heftier dependent charges are being discussed
Broad Coalition Support
- Universities across the Innovative Research Universities (IRU) and Regional Universities Network (RUN) are backing the campaign. They argue that Australia\’s fee regime is inconsistent, particularly compared to the lighter fees applied to Pacific Island students.
Why It Matters
- Global competitiveness: Australia risks losing its edge in English language and short‑term study markets.
- Mobility & partnerships: Removing fee barriers supports study-abroad flows both into and out of Australia.
- Policy tracking: A major forum session in late July and upcoming government feedback suggest meaningful pricing adjustments could occur by early 2026.
Bottom Line
Australia\’s education sector is actively lobbying for a tiered visa fee structure that recognises short‑term programs, arguing that without reform, the country risks losing a critical segment of its international education offering. Government reviews are underway, with firm decisions due by January 1, 2026.
Conclusion:
The ongoing discussions about lowering student visa fees for short-term programs underscore the importance of expert guidance when navigating Australia’s evolving visa landscape. Bullseye Consultant, a trusted migration agent in Brisbane, is well-equipped to assist international students and institutions with tailored visa solutions. With their in-depth knowledge of evolving policies, they ensure a smooth and efficient visa application process.
