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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How the Immigration Index 2026 Evaluates Countries

This ranking is based on the evaluation of 82 countries across 34 criteria grouped into 16 different categories. Key factors include healthcare systems, job opportunities, safety levels, quality of life, environment, public transportation, and immigrant communities.

Why Australia Remains an Attractive Destination

One of the standout factors behind Australia’s appeal is its high-quality healthcare system. The country ranks second globally in healthcare, providing reassurance for both residents and international students.

In addition, environmental quality is among the best in the world, contributing to a balanced and sustainable lifestyle.

Australia is also highly rated for income potential, with one of the highest minimum wages globally. This creates favorable conditions for international students to work while studying, gain experience, and improve their financial situation.

Furthermore, the country ranks highly as a family-friendly destination and scores well on overall happiness indexes.

A Multicultural Environment and Growth Opportunities

Australia’s growing immigrant population has created a diverse, inclusive, and multicultural society. This environment plays a crucial role in helping international students adapt quickly and build a new life.

While the cost of living remains a challenge for many, the benefits in education, career opportunities, and quality of life make Australia a compelling long-term choice.

Top 10 Best Countries to Migrate to in 2026

1. Switzerland
2. Iceland
3. Luxembourg
4. Australia
5. Germany
6. Ireland
7. United States
8. Denmark
9. Norway
10. Spain

With its strong advantages in education, economy, and quality of life, Australia continues to be an attractive destination for those seeking study and career opportunities in an international environment.

Source: Time Out

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Clients Left Vulnerable After Law Firm Ceases Operations

Gold Migration Lawyers, based in Melbourne, has officially ceased operations and entered liquidation after notifying clients via email that it could no longer provide legal representation for their visa applications.

The sudden announcement left many clients confused and unprepared, as they were unable to confirm the status of their applications. Some reported paying thousands to tens of thousands of Australian dollars, yet are now unable to access their case information or continue the process.

In some cases, applicants now face the risk of their visas expiring while their applications remain unresolved, potentially forcing them to leave Australia unexpectedly.

Risk of Financial Loss and Disrupted Visa Applications

Many clients stated they had paid substantial fees to the firm with the expectation of full-service support throughout their visa process. However, the firm’s closure has left them not only financially impacted but also without control over their applications.

In some situations, applicants are unaware of the stage their application has reached, lack access to submitted documents, or do not know which authority is handling their case. This is particularly concerning as deadlines set by the Department of Home Affairs continue to apply.

Missing deadlines can lead to serious consequences, including visa refusals, cancellations, or loss of appeal rights.

What Should Applicants Do in This Situation?

According to migration experts, applicants can regain control of their visa applications by taking the appropriate steps. The first step is to create or log into an ImmiAccount and link the visa application directly to their personal account.

Once linked, applicants can access the full communication history with the Department of Home Affairs, check application status, and continue submitting documents if required.

Applicants should also update their contact details and remove the previous representative to ensure all important notifications are sent directly to them.

However, managing a visa application independently can be challenging without experience. In such cases, seeking a reputable migration consultant to take over and handle the application is often the safer option.

Choosing a Reliable Migration Consultant

This incident highlights the risks of selecting migration service providers that lack transparency or sufficient expertise. Visa applications are closely tied to an individual’s future in terms of study, work, and migration, and therefore require careful consideration.

In Australia, migration service providers must comply with strict legal requirements and maintain transparency in both case management and financial dealings. Applicants should prioritise organisations with proven experience, clear processes, and the ability to provide long-term support.

In a rapidly changing migration environment, De1 Consultancy is recognised as a provider of education, travel, and migration consulting services in Australia, with over five years of experience supporting hundreds of applications annually.

De1 Consultancy focuses on long-term client support, from initial preparation through to visa outcomes and settlement in Australia.

In cases where applications are disrupted or require urgent handling, their team can review the entire process and ensure that clients do not miss critical deadlines set by the Department of Home Affairs.

With practical experience and in-depth knowledge of visa policies, De1 Consultancy helps minimise risks and improve the chances of success for each application.

The collapse of an immigration law firm not only causes financial damage but also directly impacts the future of many visa applicants. As Australia’s visa policies become increasingly strict, choosing the right advisory service is no longer optional—it is essential.

Applicants must proactively monitor their applications and seek support from reputable providers to protect their rights and avoid unnecessary risks.

How to Verify the Credibility of a Migration Service Provider in Australia

The Gold Migration Lawyers case serves as a reminder that applicants should not rely solely on advertising or social media reviews when choosing a migration service provider.

One of the simplest ways to verify a business in Australia is by checking its Australian Business Number (ABN). This number is issued by the government and can be publicly verified through the ABN Lookup system.

Through ABN Lookup, users can confirm whether a business is legally active, its registration date, GST status, and other public information. This is considered a basic step before making any payment or signing a service agreement.

In addition to ABN verification, applicants should review the company’s operational history, physical office location, representative details, and feedback from previous clients. For migration service providers, checking professional registration and licensing is also essential.

ABN Lookup is a free tool provided by the Australian Business Register (ABR), allowing users to search for businesses by name, ABN, or ACN and verify their operational status before engaging their services.

At De1 Consultancy, transparency is a top priority. Clients are encouraged to verify business details, understand the process, and track their application status throughout the consultation. With over five years of experience in travel, education, and migration services, De1 Consultancy is committed to building trust through clarity, professionalism, and long-term client support.

Source: ABC

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Post-COVID Phase: From Recovery to Tightened Control

In the 2023–24 financial year, more than 28,000 visas were cancelled. This number surged to over 37,000 in 2024–25, marking the highest level since the pandemic. This trend indicates that the Australian government has significantly intensified its monitoring and enforcement efforts against individuals who no longer meet visa conditions.

This increase is not coincidental but reflects a systemic policy shift. While previous strategies focused on controlling entry through application assessments, Australia is now managing the entire visa lifecycle from issuance to exit from the system.

Student Visas: The Core Focus of Enforcement

Among all visa categories, student visas have been the most affected. The number of cancelled student visas rose sharply from nearly 14,000 to over 21,000 within just one year, accounting for more than half of all cancellations in 2024–25.

This surge reflects growing concerns about the integrity of international student cohorts. Issues such as failure to maintain enrolment, working beyond permitted hours, or using student visas as a pathway for indirect migration have placed this group under increased scrutiny.

Rather than focusing solely on attracting international students, current policies aim to ensure that visa holders genuinely meet study requirements and comply with all conditions.

Other Visa Categories: Monitored but Not Primary Targets

Tourist and temporary visas continue to be monitored, although they have not experienced the same level of fluctuation as student visas. Tourist visa cancellations have shown a gradual decline after peaking in 2023–24, while temporary visas saw a modest increase before stabilising.

This indicates that current policies are not uniformly applied across all visa types but are instead targeted toward categories considered higher risk from a compliance perspective.

2024–2025: Peak of Visa Enforcement Strategy

With more than 37,000 visa cancellations, the 2024–25 period represents the peak of enforcement activity. During this time, multiple policy measures were introduced, including stricter eligibility criteria and enhanced post-grant compliance checks.

External pressures such as housing shortages, labour market constraints, and infrastructure capacity also contributed to the government’s decision to take a more aggressive stance on migration control.

2025–2026: A Technical Decline

Data for 2025–26 shows a significant drop in visa cancellations to just over 16,000. However, this is likely due to incomplete reporting for the financial year rather than a genuine policy relaxation.

The composition of cancellations still indicates that student visas remain the dominant category, reinforcing the view that strict controls are ongoing.

Long-Term Trend: Quality Over Quantity

Overall, the 2023–2026 period demonstrates a clear shift in Australia’s migration strategy. The focus is no longer on how many visas are issued, but on who remains in the system and whether they comply with the conditions attached to their visa.

This means that holding a valid visa no longer guarantees long-term stay. Visa holders must continuously meet all conditions or risk cancellation at any time.

The rising trend of visa cancellations reflects a more selective and controlled migration system. Student visas are at the centre of enforcement, while other visa categories remain under supervision but with less intensity.

For individuals planning to study or work in Australia, this environment demands greater transparency, compliance, and clarity of purpose. This is not a short-term shift but a long-term direction likely to shape Australia’s visa policies in the coming years.

How to Avoid Student Visa Cancellation in Australia

In an increasingly strict regulatory environment, holding a valid visa does not guarantee your right to remain in Australia until its expiry date. Many visas are cancelled before expiry due to non-compliance with conditions.

This requires students to proactively monitor their visa status and ensure full compliance throughout their stay.

a. Do Not Rely Solely on Visa Expiry Date

A common misconception is that a valid visa remains secure until its expiry. In reality, authorities can cancel a visa at any time if conditions are no longer met. Regular checks via ImmiAccount or VEVO are essential.

b. CoE and Enrolment Status Are Critical

The Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) is not just an entry requirement but the legal foundation of a student visa. If a CoE is cancelled, the visa may also be at risk.

c. Attendance and Academic Progress Matter

Attending classes and meeting academic requirements are no longer formalities. Institutions report student performance, and non-compliance may lead to monitoring or cancellation.

d. Working Conditions Must Be Respected

Breaching work-hour limits or failing to comply with employment conditions can result in serious consequences, including visa cancellation.

e. Always Monitor Official Communications

Important notifications from schools or the Department of Home Affairs may require timely responses. Ignoring them can escalate minor issues into serious risks.

f. Follow Proper Procedures for Deferral

Deferring studies must be formally approved. Unauthorised breaks can lead to visa breaches.

g. Prepare Documents When Re-entering Australia

Border authorities may request proof of enrolment and visa status. Ensure all documents are up to date.

h. Be Cautious When Leaving Australia

Leaving Australia during a “sensitive” visa status (e.g. cancelled CoE or bridging visa) may affect your ability to return. Seek professional advice before travelling.

Compliance Is No Longer Optional

Australia’s visa system is evolving into a stricter and more controlled framework. Compliance is no longer an advantage it is a requirement. Understanding and following visa conditions is essential to maintaining your legal status in Australia.

The post Australia Visa Cancellation Trends 2023–2026: International Students Become the Primary Focus of Compliance Enforcement appeared first on De1 Consultancy.

What is Visa 462?

Visa 462 (Working Holiday Visa) allows young people aged 18–30 to travel and work in Australia for up to 12 months. This program is highly popular in Vietnam due to the opportunity to gain international experience and increase income.

Visa 462 Registration Period for 2026–2027

According to the Australian Department of Home Affairs, the ballot (pre-application) registration period will be open for 3 weeks:

• From 04 June 2026
• To 25 June 2026

All times are based on Australian Eastern Standard Time (AEST).

How does the Visa 462 ballot system work?

Due to the high number of applicants exceeding the annual quota, Australia uses a random ballot system to select eligible candidates to apply for the visa.

• Applicants must register for the ballot and pay a fee of approximately AUD 25
• The system will randomly select applicants
• Only selected applicants are invited to submit a Visa 462 application

Selections will take place multiple times throughout the program year until all registrations expire on 30 April 2027.

Important Notes

• Registering does not guarantee a visa application opportunity
• Selection is entirely random
• Applicants should prepare documents in advance
• The number of visas issued each year is limited

Opportunities and Challenges for Vietnamese Applicants

Visa 462 offers great opportunities for young Vietnamese people to experience life and work in Australia. However, due to the ballot system, competition is high and applicants need to be well-prepared.

The 2026–2027 Visa 462 program continues to apply the ballot system, requiring applicants to closely monitor timelines and prepare early. It remains one of the most attractive pathways for young people seeking international work and travel experience in Australia.

Source: Department of Home Affairs

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During the process of applying for an Australian visa—whether for study, travel, or migration—your passport is the most important document. If you obtain a new passport, it is essential to update your details with the Australian Department of Home Affairs to avoid visa issues, delays, or even being denied entry due to mismatched information.

Why Do You Need to Update Your Passport?

Your passport is not only a travel document but also your primary identification for all visa applications. You should update your passport in the following situations:

• Passport is expired or about to expire
• Changes in personal details (name, date of birth, place of birth)
• Passport is damaged or has no remaining pages
• You have been issued a new passport
• You need to update passport details in an ongoing visa application

Using an outdated or incorrect passport can lead to visa refusal, processing delays, or issues at immigration checkpoints.

When Should You Inform Your Agent?

You should notify your migration agent or support team immediately if:

• You have received a new passport
• Your passport changes during visa processing
• You already have a visa but have not entered Australia yet
• You are about to travel and notice incorrect passport details

Timely updates ensure your visa information is synchronized and reduce risks during application processing or at the airport.

How to Update Passport Details for Your Visa

Depending on your visa type, the process may vary. However, it generally includes:

• Providing a scanned copy of your new passport
• Notifying your agent or immigration authority
• Updating passport details in your visa application
• Re-checking all information before traveling

In many cases, your existing visa remains valid but must be linked to your new passport to ensure smooth travel.

Update Passport via ImmiAccount

For Australian visas, you can update your passport details directly through ImmiAccount. This ensures your application stays accurate and up to date.

Step-by-Step Guide to Update Passport in ImmiAccount

Login to ImmiAccount
        ↓
Select your application
        ↓
Edit / View details
        ↓
Application home
        ↓
Update details
        ↓
Change of passport details
        ↓
Select applicant
        ↓
Enter new passport details
        ↓
Provide reason for change
        ↓
Submit

Important Notes

• Ensure all passport details match exactly with your new passport
• Do not use your old passport once updated
• Double-check all information before submitting
• Update as early as possible to avoid visa issues

Updating your passport correctly in ImmiAccount helps keep your visa records accurate and minimizes risks during processing or travel.

Managing and updating your passport may seem like a small step, but it plays a critical role in your visa outcome and travel experience. Being proactive can help you avoid unnecessary complications.

If you are currently applying for a visa or have recently changed your passport, contact your migration agent for timely and accurate assistance.

The post How to Update Your New Passport Details with the Australian Immigration Department When Applying for a Visa appeared first on De1 Consultancy.

However, the first thing to emphasize is: AI is not always correct. So don’t rely on it completely, and absolutely avoid copy–pasting without checking. This habit can negatively affect your learning, especially in an international academic environment.

1. Use AI as a “study explainer”

Instead of getting stuck when you don’t understand something, I often use AI to ask questions in different ways.

• Understand the topic from multiple perspectives
• Avoid getting stuck on difficult concepts for too long
• Become more proactive in learning

Tip: ask clear and specific questions (good prompts), because the quality of answers depends heavily on how you ask.

2. Use AI to process long materials and notes

In international universities, the amount of materials and slides can be overwhelming — some courses have over 100 slides, making it difficult to read everything.

AI can help you:

• Summarize key points
• Organize knowledge more effectively
• Clarify important ideas

However, you should always cross-check with the original materials to ensure accuracy and completeness.

3. Use AI to support critical thinking and active learning

Beyond studying, AI can support many aspects of your learning process:

• Generating ideas for essays or presentations
• Organizing notes in a clearer and more logical way
• Practicing presentations by simulating questions

This helps transform learning from passive knowledge intake into active thinking and skill development.

4. Never trust AI 100%

This is the most important rule when using AI for studying.

AI can:

• Explain complex concepts clearly
• Process information quickly

But AI can also:

• Give incorrect answers
• Lack academic context
• Misinterpret requirements

Therefore, you should always:

• Verify important information
• Cross-check with official sources
• Maintain critical thinking

5. Popular AI tools

• ChatGPT
• Gemini
• SciSpace (very useful for research)
• Claude

Each tool has its own strengths, so you should choose based on your study needs rather than relying on just one.

If used properly, AI won’t make you lazy — instead, it will help you:

• Learn faster
• Understand more deeply
• Work more efficiently

The key is not whether you use AI or not, but how you use it.

Think of AI as a learning companion that helps you study smarter, not something that replaces your effort.

The post Using AI in Studying Abroad: How to Use It Effectively for Better Learning appeared first on De1 Consultancy.

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.

The post Vivid Sydney 2026: Australia’s Biggest Light Festival You Can’t Miss This Year appeared first on De1 Consultancy.

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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