The Strategic Review of the Student Visa Program, conducted by former Olympics Minister Michael Knight on behalf of the Commonwealth Government was released Thursday by Ministers Evans, drawing mixed reactions.

In response to the strategic review, the Australian Government has moved to reduce the financial requirements for some applicants by as much as $36,000, treating all students enrolled in a course at the bachelor degree level or higher as lower risk and with relaxed requirements, and making available a two to four-year post-study work visa for university graduates.

The Migration Institute of Australia (MIA) CEO Maurene Horder congratulated the Australian Government on accepting all 41 recommendations of the Review, which she described as a breath of fresh air for the Student visa program in its presentation, language, analysis and proposals.

“The Government’s acceptance of these recommendations will see essential reforms to a program that for many years has posed difficulties for students, education providers and RMAs alike,” Ms Horder said.

“Certain streamlined application procedures, a reasonable approach to compliance matters, and post-study work rights are particularly welcome features of the new arrangements.”

Martin Riordan, Chief Executive of TDA, said the Knight Report was one of some 12 announced last year by Immigration, and yet another Inquiry into the detail of the Assessment Level arrangements for student visas is a sad waste of taxpayers‟ money.

“Overall, TDA is disappointed with the Review, and its recommendations fail to immediately recognize the minimal risk of State and Territory owned public providers. TDA as a member of the consultative committee will work with the federal government and its agencies to ensure the student visa program protects the rights of students and supports quality providers - especially in low risk categories of providers such as TAFE Institutes,” he said.