Australia politics live: Labor to reveal new immigration rules; PM hails narrowing of gender gap

Australia has risen to the top 10 in the World Economic Forum’s Global Gender Gap Report, reaching an eighth-place ranking for the first time ever. This significant improvement comes after a 35-place increase since the Albanese government assumed office, moving from 43rd place in 2025. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese attributes this achievement to better political representation, including a female-majority cabinet, enhanced paid parental leave, wage increases in female-centric industries, and investments in women’s health.

He emphasized that while the journey is ongoing, efforts will persist in raising wages, eradicating gender-based violence, increasing female workplace representation, expanding women’s health initiatives, and bolstering women’s leadership.

The minister for women, Katy Gallagher, affirmed that the record ranking wasn't accidental, acknowledging the need for further progress on ending violence against women, valuing care work, enhancing women’s economic empowerment, boosting women’s health outcomes, and strengthening women’s representation. However, immigration reform is set to bring substantial changes, particularly for international students.

Last year, Australia issued over 337,000 student visas, with approximately 45,000 going to dependents or family members of the primary applicant. In the future, most students will be required to enter the country alone. Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke will unveil these changes at the National Press Club, following an initial plan that was postponed for over a month.

His speech, titled "The Work of Managing the Migration Program: Who Arrives, Who Stays, Who Leaves," aims to control net overseas migration (NOM) while minimizing economic impact. The reforms will modify visa category rules, shifting from demand-driven settings introduced by the Howard government to allow greater control over the numbers entering and departing the country.

Labor intends to legislate for tighter control over arrivals, possibly resorting to regulations and directives if parliamentary agreement proves elusive.