Austria also affected: Australia suspends backpacker visas for 23 countries [premium]

Die PresseParty-aligned🔒Conservative10 days ago

Australia has temporarily suspended work-and-holiday visas for applicants from 23 countries, including Austria, as part of efforts to manage immigration more evenly throughout the year. The move comes amid record numbers of international students and young workers entering Australia under these visa programs, which now contribute significantly to net migration. While Germany remains unaffected by this restriction, the decision reflects growing political pressure on Australia’s social democratic government from right-wing groups like One Nation, led by Pauline Hanson. These groups advocate for stricter immigration policies and have gained increasing support, partly due to backing from wealthy figures such as mining billionaire Gina Rinehart. Despite calls for tighter controls, Australia’s economic prosperity continues to rely heavily on its successful immigration policies, which include both skilled migration and family-based pathways.

Bias read (Conservative): The article emphasizes the political pressure from right-wing groups like One Nation, highlights their growing influence, and mentions specific actions taken by right-leaning figures such as Pauline Hanson and Gina Rinehart. It frames the visa restrictions as a response to political demands rather a