One question that dominated the post-speech Q&A at the National Press Club was whether Australia’s migration tightening would breach commitments made under the 2022 Australia–India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (ECTA). Tony Burke confirmed on 17 September that the additional stay period for Indian graduates on Temporary Graduate visas (subclass 485)—up to six years for STEM master’s and doctorate holders—“remains on the table”. The clarification followed Indian media concerns that capping dependent visas and tougher course-progression rules might dilute ECTA side letters granting Indian students extended post-study work rights. Burke emphasised that “all free-trade-agreement obligations are being honoured”, noting that 40 per cent of 485 grants last year went to Indian nationals. Education agents welcomed the assurance but warned that higher visa fees, the ban on dependants and a more restrictive pathway from study to permanent residency could still reduce Indian enrolments. Universities are urging the Government to publish consolidated guidance reconciling ECTA benefits with the new Migration Strategy once legislative drafting is complete later this year. Employers in the technology and healthcare sectors—which rely heavily on Indian graduates—should monitor forthcoming amendments to Ministerial Direction 95 (Graduate Visa Priority) to confirm whether STEM streams will retain accelerated processing. Sponsoring companies may need to budget for higher nomination costs if graduates shift to employer-sponsored routes sooner than anticipated.
Source: The Indian Sun
