Tasmania Update: Second Post-Higher Education Work Stream for International Graduates

On 12 September 2025, the Australian Government officially extended the eligibility of the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) - Second Post-Higher Education Work stream to include Hobart, Tasmania, with designated postcode zones. This landmark change means that more international graduates living and studying in Hobart may now qualify for an additional work-extension period under the 485 visa regime.

What Has Changed

• Hobart now classified as “regional” for this stream: Previously limited in scope, Hobart-area postcodes are now recognised as part of the designated regional zones for second-stream eligibility.

• One-year extension possible: Graduates who held their first 485 visa and resided in the eligible zones can now apply for an extra 1-year stay under the second stream.

• Postcode specificity imposed: Only certain Hobart and surrounding postcodes qualify, not the entire city region.

• Aligned with national policy: This change brings Tasmania more closely in line with other states already benefiting from second-stream access for regional graduates.

Eligible Postcodes in Hobart

Graduates who studied and lived in the following Hobart-region postcodes are now entitled to a two-year second Temporary Graduate Visa 7000, 7004 to 7026, 7030 to 7109, 7140 to 7151, 7170 to 7177

Key dates

• Before 12 September 2025: Hobart graduates were only eligible for one year on the second Temporary Graduate Visa.

• After 12 September 2025: Hobart graduates may now receive a two-year second Temporary Graduate Visa, provided they meet all requirements.

Implications for International Students

• Extended Stay: Graduates gain an extra year compared to previous arrangements.

• Strategic Advantage: Studying and living in Hobart is now more attractive, aligning with longer post-study pathways.

• Workforce Contribution: The change will help Tasmania retain international graduates in industries experiencing skill shortages.

  
  

This update is a milestone for Tasmania’s international education sector. By granting two-year second Temporary Graduate visas to graduates from Hobart, the government has recognised the state’s importance in Australia’s migration framework. This reform not only supports Tasmania’s economic needs but also creates clearer, fairer pathways for international graduates who have chosen Hobart as their place of study and residence.

At Newsted, we acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we work and live, and pay our respects to Elders past and present. We extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.