Sydney University Postgraduate Representative Association (SUPRA) is concerned by the Australian Government’s recent increases to visa application charges for international students and Temporary Graduate visa applicants.
In recent years, Australia’s international student and post-study work visa settings have undergone a number of significant changes. From 1 July 2026, the application charge for most primary applicants of the Temporary Graduate (subclass 485) visa increased from $4,600 to $5,750. Just 4 months earlier, on 1 March 2026, the same fee had already risen from $2,300 to $4,600. Two substantial fee increases within such a short period places additional financial pressure on international students.
The rapid increase in visa application charges not only increases the financial burden on international students but also affects their study, employment and career planning. Many students made decisions about studying in Australia and their post-graduation pathways based on the policy settings and fee structures that were in place at the time. Repeated policy changes with limited transition arrangements have required some students to reconsider their financial planning and future plans.
International students are an important part of the University of Sydney’s postgraduate community. SUPRA advocates for a policy environment that is fair, transparent and predictable. We call on the Australian Government to strengthen consultation with elected student representatives on policies affecting international students and to provide reasonable notice and appropriate transition arrangements for significant policy changes.
SUPRA will engage and collaborate with national student representative organisations, including the International Students Representative Council of Australia (ISRC) and the Council of Australian Postgraduate Associations (CAPA), to advocate for the ongoing improvement of policies affecting international students.
SUPRA stands with international students. Our legal and casework services will continue to provide advice and assistance to students, including helping affected international students to understand policy changes and protect their rights. Students seeking support can contact us for help.
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