Australia's Denied Protection Visa Holders Nears 100,000 Amid Student Dropout Concerns

Australia's asylum system is facing significant pressure, with nearly 100,000 individuals whose protection visa applications have been denied remaining in the country, according to figures cited from the Department of Home Affairs. This surge in undeported individuals is occurring alongside claims that international students are increasingly utilizing the asylum system after dropping out of regional universities. Critics suggest this trend is overwhelming the system and raising questions about immigration integrity.

The situation has been highlighted by concerns that international students constitute over 50% of regional university dropouts in their first year, with many allegedly not leaving Australia but instead applying for asylum. As stated in a recent social media post by "Aus Integrity," these applications are described as "bogus refugee applications" contributing to the strain on the system. The connection between student visa holders and subsequent asylum claims has been a growing area of scrutiny for Australian authorities, as noted by immigration experts.

Official data from the Department of Home Affairs, as of July 31, indicates that 98,979 people had their protection visa applications denied but were yet to be deported. Additionally, 27,100 applications were still awaiting a decision. The social media post further asserts that the majority of those denied protection visas have remained in the country, with the author claiming this accounts for "over 30,000 homes occupied by illegal immigrants."

The Australian government has been under increasing pressure to address the substantial backlog across various visa types and ensure the integrity of its migration system. While the government's policy dictates that individuals whose visas are cancelled or denied are expected to depart, practical challenges, legal appeals, and processing delays often complicate and prolong the deportation process. This complexity contributes significantly to the growing number of unlawful non-citizens residing in Australia, as reported by SBS News.

Experts and commentators have pointed to the complexities within Australia's immigration framework, suggesting that some individuals may exploit loopholes to extend their stay. The ongoing backlog and the challenges in enforcing departures for denied applicants underscore broader debates about resource allocation, policy effectiveness, and the future direction of Australia's immigration and asylum policies. The situation demands a comprehensive review to manage the increasing numbers and maintain public confidence in the system.