Peter Dutton raises concerns over international student cap in Australia

The Australian Opposition Leader, Peter Dutton, has voiced his concerns regarding the rising number of international students appealing against visa rejections. This increase follows a government-imposed cap on student admissions aimed at controlling unsustainable migration growth. The Administrative Appeals Tribunal has seen a dramatic rise in appeals, with figures jumping from 2,244 the previous year to 15,754, predominantly from students hailing from China and India. Dutton's comments reflect a broader anxiety about immigration policies and their effectiveness. He suggested that individuals are taking advantage of perceived weaknesses in the immigration system, potentially receiving legal advice to navigate the appeals process successfully. This situation has raised questions about the integrity of the immigration framework and the associated costs to taxpayers. The Australian government plans to cap international student admissions at 270,000 for the 2025 calendar year, despite a current enrolment of 810,960 students as of May 2024. Education Minister Jason Clare has clarified that the government will manage student numbers on an institutional basis rather than imposing an overall cap, aiming to maintain stability in the sector. Dutton's remarks also connect to broader immigration issues, including the financial burden of housing and supporting migrants released from detention. The ongoing debate highlights the complexities of managing international student admissions and the implications for Australia's immigration policies.