Problem: International students are being granted the visas, however, they are not under any of the exemption categories to travel to Australia, therefore, they cannot come to Australia. Families are being separated as many students went to see their relatives back home and stuck there due to COVID-19. International students do not meet compelling or compassionate grounds, therefore, cannot continue or start their studies in Australia. Students are usually coming for a minimum of 1 to 4 years stay period in Australia, therefore, once they are quarantined, students do not impose any risk to an Australian community. Annually, students generate 40 billion dollars to an Australian community directly and indirectly, therefore, they should be given an option to complete their studies and apply for a Graduate visa (sc 485) given they meet the eligibility requirements.

Request: We, therefore, ask to add Student visa holders (sc 500) as an exemption category.