Australia's Home Affairs Minister, Tony Burke, has postponed a highly anticipated speech at the National Press Club that was expected to unveil significant changes to the country's migration system.
The speech, originally scheduled for Thursday, has been delayed because several key policy details have not yet been finalised. The Australian Government says a new date will be announced soon.
According to reports, the proposed reforms aim to further reduce Australia's net migration and give the government greater control over migrant arrivals. Measures under consideration reportedly include stricter family visa rules, limits on working holiday (backpacker) visas, tighter conditions for asylum seekers, and changes affecting temporary visa holders.
The government has already introduced several migration measures in recent months, including a 24% increase in visa application fees from 1 July 2026 and new processing priorities favouring applicants already in Australia for skilled and family visas.
One of the most closely watched proposals could prevent family members of Australian citizens and permanent residents from applying for partner or family visas while visiting Australia on tourist visas, requiring them to wait overseas until their applications are processed.
The proposed reforms come as migration remains a major political issue ahead of future elections, with both the Coalition and One Nation calling for tougher migration controls.
The Albanese Government says the reforms are intended to create a fairer and more sustainable migration system while addressing public concerns over Australia's record migration levels.
