Parliament recalled to pass tough hate-speech and gun laws that expand ministerial visa-cancellation powers
Australia moves India to highest-risk tier for student visas, triggering extra scrutiny and delays
Cyclone Koji disrupts North Queensland aviation, forcing widespread flight cancellations and re-routing
Latest News
Tribunal restores visa of Sudanese refugee convicted of manslaughter, igniting section 501 deportation debate
The Administrative Review Tribunal has reinstated the visa of a Sudanese refugee who served jail time for manslaughter, sparking renewed political calls for automatic deportation of violent non-citizens. The case highlights the fluid nature of section 501 character cancellations ahead of new legislation that will broaden ministerial powers.
Australia Puts India and Three Neighbours in Highest-Risk Tier for Student Visas
Effective 8 January 2026, Australia has re-classified India, Nepal, Bangladesh and Bhutan as Evidence Level 3 – the highest-risk bracket – under its Simplified Student Visa Framework. Applicants from these countries now face tougher documentation checks and longer processing times, a change that could delay enrolments and corporate graduate programmes. Universities and mobility managers are being urged to add lead-time buffers and upgrade due-diligence on financial and academic evidence.
Victoria Bushfires Disrupt Flights, Rail and Roads; Qantas Issues Fee-Free Rebooking Waiver
Bushfires sweeping Victoria have triggered flight delays at Melbourne airports, extensive rail suspensions and highway closures. Qantas and Jetstar have issued a fee-free rebooking waiver for 9–10 January travel, and freight as well as passenger routes are being diverted. Employers are advised to monitor VicEmergency alerts, adjust itineraries and activate duty-of-care plans as authorities warn that containment could take weeks.