Visa loophole diploma cancelled amid 'shonk' fears

The federal government announced in early September 2026 that the graduate diploma of management (learning) will be deregistered effective October 5, 2026. This decision stems from fears that the course, offered by nearly 450 institutions and currently enrolling over 15,000 students, is being misused by 'non-genuine' international students to extend their stay in Australia. Private colleges have reportedly begun offering discounts and encouraging expedited enrolment to get students into the course before the October deadline. Students already enrolled by October 5 will be permitted to complete their studies.

The government's action is part of a wider initiative to curb visa-hopping and prevent international students from downgrading to lower-value courses to remain in the country and work more hours. The assistant minister responsible, Julian Hill, stated that both student and provider behaviour will be closely monitored for suspicious enrolment patterns. This crackdown also includes a ban on commissions for agents transferring students between courses. Some education agents are reportedly guiding students towards master's degrees as alternative pathways to maintain visa requirements.