Immigration Updates

Home Affairs advises that TOEFL iBT testing is currently unavailable in Iran. Applicants there who need an approved English test may need to sit one in another country.

Media report (not official): ABC reports the government has stopped new international enrolments in a graduate diploma of management course it believes was used by non-genuine students to extend their stay. Current students can complete the course, but providers and agents cannot recruit new overseas students into it.

OMARA has cancelled or suspended three registered migration agents for letting unregistered people give immigration assistance under their registration numbers. Applicants should check who is really advising them.

Media report (not official): ABC profiles a refugee who has lived in Australia for eight years on short bridging visas with no permanent pathway, despite her family now being citizens. Advocates say around 700 people are in a similar position and are asking the Minister to intervene.

Tasmania has opened registrations of interest for 2026-27 with 1,250 subclass 190 and 800 subclass 491 places, plus refreshed priority attributes and a new application portal.

Media report (not official): ABC reports a late-July ministerial direction reorders skilled visa processing, putting defence-related roles first and onshore temporary visa holders ahead of new offshore applicants. Commentators quoted said the effect on net migration would be modest, and the Opposition criticised the lack of consultation.

From 25 July 2026, new Ministerial Directions changed processing priorities, with Direction 117 giving top priority to Family visa applicants who apply onshore for onshore-grant visas.

Fans heading to the Rugby League World Cup need a valid visa, while players, officials, media and other accredited participants can apply for a subclass 408 event visa with no application charge.

Media report (not official): SBS reports that from 1 July 2026 several visa charges rose substantially, including the resident return visa, student and graduate visas, and Bridging Visa B. Migration agents criticised the lack of notice, while Home Affairs said the revenue will support system reforms.

Since 1 July 2026, eligible PNG citizens with a good compliance history can use a streamlined 'Apply again' option in ImmiAccount for Visitor (600) Tourist or Business Visitor applications.