This report reviews the Federal Government’s recently released Migration Strategy. It suggests that
in their current form certain recommendations made will have a detrimental impact on Australia’s
future as a world leading centre of research and its capacity to develop the knowledge and skills
needed to compete in an increasingly interconnected world. It focuses particularly on the impact on
students enrolled in Higher Degree by Research programs. By reducing the maximum age for all
applicants for a Temporary Graduate Visa to 35 years and shortening the post study work rights to
three years, Australia will see fewer of its most skilled graduates remain in the country, fewer
enrolments in research degrees in the future, and cause damage to its international reputation by
reneging on its promises made to currently enrolled students. Instead, this report recommends that
the government amend its migration strategy as to exempt HDR students from the age limit of 35
and retain the duration of the TGV as it stands.
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