One Nation’s Proposal to Tighten Student Visas

The proposal was introduced by the One Nation party led by Senator Pauline Hanson. Under the plan, international students who wish to switch to a new course after discontinuing their current program may be required to leave Australia before applying for further studies. One Nation argues that this measure aims to reduce “course-hopping,” where students repeatedly change institutions or majors to extend their stay in Australia.

Senator Pauline Hanson stated that some international students are exploiting loopholes in the visa system, including the use of Bridging Visas to remain legally in the country while their study plans remain unclear. According to her, this not only undermines the original purpose of the student visa but also adds pressure to housing, infrastructure, and the broader immigration system.

Possible Changes if the Proposal Is Implemented

If approved, the policy could require students to leave Australia before applying for a new course and may further restrict multiple course or institution changes. In addition, the use of Bridging Visas in certain cases could be limited, and appeal rights for rejected applications may also be reduced. The overall goal is to ensure that student visas are used strictly for educational purposes rather than as a way to extend residency.

Context: Australia Reducing Immigration Targets

This proposal comes as the Australian government continues to significantly reduce immigration levels. From 538,000 in 2023, the intake dropped to 429,000 in 2024 and 306,000 in 2025. The long-term target is expected to fall further to around 225,000. This trend shows that immigration and visa policies, including student visas, are becoming increasingly strict.

Debate Over Australia’s 2026 Student Visa Policy

The proposal has sparked mixed reactions. Some support stricter regulations, arguing they are necessary to maintain visa integrity and reduce pressure on housing and infrastructure.

On the other hand, education and economic experts warn that international students contribute significantly to Australia’s economy through tuition fees, living expenses, and part-time work. Excessive tightening could reduce Australia’s attractiveness compared to countries like Canada or the United Kingdom.

What Students Should Prepare For

Given the ongoing policy changes, international students and those planning to study in Australia are advised to plan their study pathways carefully, avoid unnecessary course changes, and stay updated with immigration regulations. Proper documentation and compliance with visa conditions will be essential to reduce risks during their studies and stay in Australia.

2026 is considered a pivotal year for Australia’s immigration policy adjustments. Although the proposal requiring students to leave Australia before reapplying for study has not yet been passed, it reflects a clear trend toward stricter oversight of international students. This suggests that studying and potentially migrating to Australia may become more challenging in the near future.

Source: The Nightly

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This is considered one of the most significant upgrades to Victoria’s public transport system in nearly a decade, marking a major step forward in modernizing the commuting experience.

Easy payments without a Myki card

With this new system, passengers no longer need to top up or carry a Myki card. Instead, they can pay directly using:

• Visa or Mastercard
• Smartphones with Apple Pay or Google Pay
• Smartwatches with contactless payment support

Users simply tap on and tap off, and the system will automatically calculate the fare.

Phased rollout

From June 8, 2026, the system has been introduced on the following lines:

• Cranbourne – Pakenham
• Frankston
• Stony Point
• Sandringham
• Sunbury
• Werribee
• Williamstown

As well as V/Line services including:

• Geelong
• Bendigo
• Gippsland

From June 14, 2026, additional lines include:

• Belgrave
• Lilydale
• Glen Waverley
• Alamein
• Mernda
• Hurstbridge

Positive response with some limitations

Trial data from March 2026 recorded over 88,500 Tap and Go transactions, with around 80% of users choosing to pay via smartphones or smartwatches.

However, the system currently only applies to full-fare adult tickets. Students, seniors, and Health Care Card holders must still use concession Myki cards to access discounted fares.

Additionally, buses and trams in Melbourne do not yet support Tap and Go payments.

A step forward in transport modernization

Although introduced later than in Sydney, Tap and Go is still seen as a major advancement, simplifying fare payments and improving the overall public transport experience in Melbourne.

In the future, the system is expected to expand further, moving toward a more convenient and modern transport network.

Source: Guardian Australia

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When is Vivid Sydney 2026?

• Date: May 22 – June 13, 2026
• Time: 6:00 PM – 11:00 PM daily
• Locations: Circular Quay, The Rocks, Darling Harbour, Barangaroo, Sydney CBD, Carriageworks

Highlights of Vivid Sydney 2026

1. Light projection at Sydney Opera House

The “Opera Mundi” projection by artist Yann Nguema is the highlight of this year’s festival. Inspired by nature and movement, the artwork delivers stunning visuals with strong artistic depth.

• Deep artistic concept
• Modern lighting effects
• A must-visit photo spot

2. Vivid Light Walk – Free light trail

This 6.5km trail connects key city areas with a wide range of light installations and interactive artworks.

• Completely free
• Features iconic works like Molecule of Light and Obstacle
• Perfect for travelers and students on a budget

3. Drone Show “Star-Bound” returns

After a break, the drone show is back at Darling Harbour with a bigger scale and more advanced technology.

• Location: Cockle Bay
• Time: 7:30 PM & 9:30 PM (Sunday – Wednesday)
• Advanced drone technology
• Storytelling combined with light performance

4. Food experiences at Vivid Sydney

The festival offers a wide range of food experiences, from street food to fine dining.

• Vivid Fire Kitchen with flame-grilled dishes
• Live cooking demonstrations
• Regional Dinner Series with renowned chefs

5. Music and creative talks

Beyond lights, Vivid is also a hub for music and creative ideas.

• Vivid Music with live performances
• Vivid Minds featuring international speakers
• A multi-dimensional cultural experience

To fully enjoy Vivid Sydney 2026, planning ahead is essential. It is recommended to use public transport such as trains and buses, as many central roads are restricted and parking is limited during the festival. Arriving before 7 PM can help you avoid large crowds, and visiting on weekdays offers a more relaxed experience.

In terms of budget, Vivid Sydney offers many free activities, especially the famous Light Walk. Bringing your own snacks can help reduce expenses. For accommodation, areas like Circular Quay, Darling Harbour, Sydney CBD, and Barangaroo are ideal due to their proximity to major attractions. However, booking early is highly recommended as prices increase during the festival period.

Why should you visit Vivid Sydney 2026?

Vivid Sydney 2026 is one of the world’s top light festivals, offering a unique way to experience Sydney at night. With numerous free activities, creative installations, and diverse music and food programs, it is perfect for both international visitors and students living in Australia. This year also introduces new technology, larger scale, and enhanced content compared to previous years.

Vivid Sydney 2026 is a perfect blend of culture, art, and modern technology. With its growing scale and diverse experiences, it is truly an event not to be missed if you are in Australia or planning to visit during this time.

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The ranking is based on a large-scale survey of more than 24,000 people across over 150 cities worldwide. Participants were asked to evaluate the quality, accessibility, and affordability of cultural activities in their cities, ranging from arts and music to festivals and creative lifestyles.

Melbourne: The Cultural Heart of Australia

For many years, the title of “Australia’s cultural capital” has been debated between major cities such as Sydney and Adelaide. However, the 2026 ranking once again favours Melbourne, reinforcing its leadership in arts and creativity.

Melbourne achieved an impressive 92% satisfaction rate from local residents, one of the highest globally. The city also received strong recognition from expert panels, particularly excelling in comedy and street art, two defining elements of its unique identity.

A Diverse and Accessible Cultural Ecosystem

What sets Melbourne apart is its balance between quality and accessibility. Residents and visitors can easily experience everything from world-class art exhibitions to free outdoor performances and independent creative spaces.

Locations such as the Southbank arts precinct, iconic graffiti laneways, and experimental theatres contribute to a vibrant cultural ecosystem. These spaces not only entertain but also foster creativity and community connection.

In addition, annual events such as art festivals, street performances, and international exhibitions continue to attract both public attention and industry recognition.

A Strong Comeback on the Global Cultural Map

In 2025, Sydney was the only Australian city featured in Time Out’s ranking. However, 2026 marks an impressive comeback for Melbourne, reclaiming its position as the nation’s cultural leader.

Globally, Melbourne ranks just behind major cultural centres such as London, Paris, New York, Berlin, and Cape Town, highlighting its strong international recognition.

Why Melbourne Continues to Attract Cultural Enthusiasts

Beyond rankings, what truly defines Melbourne is the real-life experience it offers. The city makes art feel like an integral part of everyday life rather than a luxury.

From spontaneous street performances to large-scale museum exhibitions, everything is designed to be approachable and inclusive. This rare balance between high artistic quality and community accessibility is what keeps Melbourne consistently appealing.

Top Cultural Cities in the World 2026

1. London, United Kingdom
2. Paris, France
3. New York City, United States
4. Berlin, Germany
5. Cape Town, South Africa
6. Melbourne, Australia
7. São Paulo, Brazil
8. Madrid, Spain
9. Florence, Italy
10. Kraków, Poland
11. Taipei, Taiwan
12. Marrakesh, Morocco
13. Copenhagen, Denmark
14. Guadalajara, Mexico
15. Athens, Greece
16. Cairo, Egypt
17. Beijing, China
18. Jaipur, India
19. Chiang Mai, Thailand
20. Lisbon, Portugal

Source: Time Out

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If you’re unsure where to settle or study in Australia, take a look at which city best matches your lifestyle:

Sydney – Perfect for those who love a vibrant, modern pace of life and are willing to spend to enjoy a high-end lifestyle. This city offers stunning beaches, world-class events, and endless opportunities for personal and professional growth.

Melbourne – If you enjoy a blend of modernity and classic charm, Melbourne is the ideal choice. Known as the city of art and culture, it’s lively yet laid-back in its own unique way.

Adelaide – Prefer peace, relaxation, and an affordable cost of living? Adelaide offers a calm and balanced lifestyle, ideal for those seeking harmony between work and personal life.

Perth – Passionate about crystal-clear beaches, wild nature, and promising career opportunities? Perth is the perfect destination, boasting a high quality of life and warm weather all year round.

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