The federal government has confirmed Australia’s permanent migration cap will remain at 185,000 for the 2025–26 financial year, with no changes to the settings announced last year.
The decision, made public on Tuesday morning, keeps the program at the same size as 2024–25 and continues to emphasise skilled migration.
According to the government, states and territories were consulted before the announcement and advised that both the size and composition of the program should stay in place.
The policy means the Department of Home Affairs will continue to process visas under existing arrangements, providing stability for applicants and employers. Skilled workers in sectors such as health, engineering, and IT are expected to remain the main focus of the intake.
The confirmation comes against the backdrop of public debate about migration, housing, and infrastructure pressures. Official data shows a rise in short-term visitor arrivals, with 624,510 trips recorded in June 2025, up 6.3 per cent on the same month last year. Long-term permanent arrivals, however, fell by 17.4 per cent over the year to 9,840.
By keeping the cap unchanged, the government appears to be weighing calls for economic growth through skilled migration against the concerns raised in state consultations about housing availability and population pressures.
Support independent community journalism. Support The Indian Sun.
Follow The Indian Sun on X | Instagram | Facebook
Support Independent Community Journalism
Dear Reader,The Indian Sun exists for one reason: to tell stories that might otherwise go unheard.
We report on local councils, state politics, small businesses and cultural festivals. We focus on the Indian diaspora and the wider multicultural community with care, balance and accountability. We publish in print and online, send regular newsletters and produce video content. We also run media training programs to help community organisations share their own stories.
We operate independently.
Community journalism does not have the backing of large media corporations. Advertising revenue fluctuates. Platform algorithms change. Costs continue to rise. Yet the need for credible, grounded reporting in a multicultural Australia has never been greater.
When you support The Indian Sun, you support:
• Independent reporting on issues affecting migrant communities
• Coverage of local and state decisions that shape daily life
• A platform for small businesses and community groups
• Media training that builds skills within the community
• Journalism accountable to readers
We cannot cover everything, but we work to cover what matters.
If you value thoughtful reporting that reflects Australia’s diversity, we invite you to contribute. Every donation helps us maintain the quality and consistency of our work.
Please consider making a contribution today.
Thank you for your support.
The Indian Sun Team
