In March this year, the number of international graduates holding 485 visas in Australia reached about 50000. (Australian Broadcasting Corporation Photo)
According to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation, more international students now hold graduation visas and stay in Australia for up to four years.
In March, the number of international graduates on visas reached about 50000, an increase of more than 16000 in 12 months.
Last year, Australian universities enrolled about 350000 students, 100000 more than in the previous three years. The time difference between admission and graduation, combined with the availability of 485 visas, means that the number of international graduates working in Australia will grow further in the coming years.
Such growth has raised concerns about Labour. Newman (Shayne Neumann), Labour spokesman for immigration affairs, said international students made an important contribution to the economy, although the rapid growth in the number of visa holders in related categories could cause concern. "it is the responsibility of (Malcolm Turnbu) government to ensure the comprehensiveness of the Australian immigration programme," he said.
But the president of the Australian National University, (ANU), says international students have not replaced the rest of the workforce. "they are not replacing other jobs, in fact, they are high-value talent that [we] can hardly bring in."
Under current visa rules, international students are allowed to work 20 hours a week during the semester, but there are no working hours or career restrictions for those applying for a Post-Study Work stream) visa for post-graduation work. It provides a visa of 2 or 4 years for persons who have completed a degree programme of at least 2 years (some with higher education may stay for up to 4 years)
Such visas can help some eventually acquire permanent residency, but the vast majority of international students return to their home countries after graduation.
In addition, a 2015 report by the Productivity Council (Productivity Commission) noted: "there is no doubt that migration has increased the supply of young workers," but "it is necessary to continue to monitor the impact of migration on youth and graduate labour markets."
By the time the report was released, the number of Australian holders of temporary graduation visas had more than doubled.
