BIG MIGRATION CHANGES APRIL 2025: DAMA III, SKILLED VISA UPDATES AND STUDENT CAP EXPLAINED
- Suman Dua MARN 1800859
- Apr 14
- 4 min read
In this blog, I’ll be covering important updates in Australian migration that you need to know. This includes:
The official rollout of NT DAMA III
A new Skilled Migration and Industry Program in South Australia
Skilled visa income threshold increases from 1 July 2025
What the latest migration data tells us about Australia’s migration outlook
A major announcement from the Coalition about capping international student numbers
Whether you’re a skilled professional, employer, student, or planning your next move — this video is packed with the latest, so let’s jump right in.
1. NT DAMA III Now in Effect
The Northern Territory DAMA III was officially executed on 19 March 2025, and endorsement applications are now open through the Migration NT portal.
Key updates include:
325 occupations now available across skill levels 1 to 5
Employers can now apply for a bulk 5-year ceiling to support long-term workforce planning
Automatic concessions:
Age up to 55 years (or 50 for skill level 5)
English language concessions available for eligible occupations
Salary threshold concession of 15% from the Core Skills Income Threshold (CSIT), currently bringing the minimum salary to $62,177, with up to $6,217 of that allowed as non-monetary benefits
Labour Market Testing required at both endorsement and nomination stages
👉 If you're an employer in the Northern Territory or a skilled migrant considering regional opportunities, this is a fantastic pathway to explore. Get in touch with us to know more.
2. South Australian Skilled Migration Talent and Industry Connection Program
The South Australian Government has partnered with local organisations to launch the Skilled Migration Talent and Industry Connection Program.
It connects skilled migrants to high-demand industries like engineering, ICT, and construction, offering tailored support such as:
Job search strategies
Resume and interview preparation
Job-readiness workshops
Language assistance
Industry events and expos
This initiative runs across metropolitan Adelaide and regional South Australia via six partner organisations. It’s a great support system for new and existing skilled migrants looking to become job-ready and connect with employers.
3. Skilled Visa Income Thresholds Increasing from 1 July 2025
In line with changes to Average Weekly Ordinary Time Earnings (AWOTE), the following income thresholds will rise from 1 July 2025:
Core Skills Income Threshold (CSIT): From $73,150 → $76,515Applies to Subclass 482 (Core Skills stream) and Subclass 186
Specialist Skills Income Threshold (SSIT): From $135,000 → $141,210Applies to Subclass 482 (Specialist stream)
Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT): From $73,150 → $76,515Applies to Subclass 494 and 187
🟡 Note: These thresholds apply only to nominations lodged on or after 1 July 2025. Existing visa holders or applications lodged before this date are not affected.
👉 Employers and visa applicants should plan ahead and ensure salary levels meet the new thresholds or the market rate—whichever is higher.
4. Migration Program & Net Overseas Migration Forecasts
In the latest federal budget papers, the government has not yet announced the 2025–26 permanent Migration Program planning levels.
Meanwhile, Net Overseas Migration (NOM) is on the decline after peaking in 2022–23. According to current forecasts:
Arrivals are expected to fall further in 2024–25
Departures are expected to increase as post-pandemic visa holders leave
NOM is forecast to stabilize at 225,000 by 2027–28 and 2028–29
📉 This signals a tightening of migration intake and a shift toward long-term sustainability — something both migrants and employers should factor into future planning.
5. Coalition’s Proposal to Cap International Student Numbers
In a major development, Opposition Leader Peter Dutton has announced that, if elected, the Coalition will:
Cap new international student enrolments at 240,000 per year
Limit international students to no more than 25% of public university enrolments
This proposal aims to reduce pressure on housing and infrastructure.
🎓 Who will be most affected? Primarily Group of Eight (Go8) universities like the University of Sydney, Melbourne, and ANU — where international student numbers currently exceed the 25% threshold.
The plan also includes:
Increasing student visa application fees to $5,000 for Go8 students
$2,500 fee for students at other institutions
An additional $2,500 fee for those wanting to change education providers
🛑 These proposals have been heavily criticised by the education sector.
Universities Australia warns this will harm Australia’s international reputation. International students contribute over $50 billion annually and support 250,000+ jobs.
Phil Honeywood, from the International Education Association of Australia, called the policy "Donald Trump’s playbook" and criticised its lack of consultation with the industry.
📌 It's important for current and prospective students to stay informed — especially if you're planning to study at a Go8 university or considering switching course providers.
Final Thoughts
As always, at Nationwide Migration and Education, we’re here to help you navigate these evolving policies.
Whether you’re:
An employer considering skilled migration options
A student planning your next steps
Or a professional looking at long-term visa pathways
👉 Our team of experienced migration professionals is here to support you every step of the way
Disclaimer:
The information shared by Nationwide Migration and Education is for general informational purposes only. While accurate at the time of publication, details may change. This content is not intended as legal or migration advice. For advice tailored to your circumstances, please book a consultation with us!
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