November 7, 2026 — 7:45pm

Magdiel Silva Da Luz has a job, a partner and an almost-complete master’s of strategic communications.

But would he choose Australia again?

Magdiel Silva Da Luz feels “like we live in a parallel life besides local people” . Simon Schluter

“I would definitely think twice,” the Brazilian international student said.

Silva Da Luz is not alone. Australia’s $54 billion international education industry is under siege as the world’s highest visa application fees, eye-watering degree costs for international students , the extraordinary cost of living, changes to work rights and a so-called “genuine student test” come together to undermine the appeal of an Australian education.

But it’s the rising tide of populism that has most alarmed students.

“When I arrived [in 2022], the situation was a bit more open for international students,” Silva Da Luz said.…