student visa change 9 Nov

Three changes to Student Visa legislation. This is partly in the context of the recent closure of some colleges.

1. From 9 November 2009, a Visa Application Charge refund has been introduced for Student visa holders who have been affected by the closure of their education provider in 2009 and who need to apply for a further Student visa to continue their studies in Australia as a result of the closure.
2. Regulation changes are being proposed to assist students affected by provider closures through the introduction of nil Visa Application Charge for students who need to apply for a further Student visa to continue their studies as a result of the closure of their education provider. Subject to approval by Parliament and the Governor-General, these changes will come into effect from 1 January 2010.
3. Regulation changes are being proposed to increase the living cost requirement from $12,000 per year to $18,000 per year for Student visa applications. Subject to approval by Parliament and the Governor-General, these changes will come into effect from 1 January 2010.