Issue:

I am a graduate international student who lost his job as a Construction Project Coordinator in Melbourne. Since then I have been spending time indoors for almost half of my visa length. I believe there are millions out there who are facing the same issue. Going back to home country is possible via repatriation flights but coming back into Australia is impossible. 

Two years of post-study work visa is spent mostly indoors due to strict lockdowns and restrictions in Australia. Jobs are getting harder to find. 

Solution:

Australia recently offered extended visa options (up to 5 years) for Hong Kong citizens. The same offer should be given to all international students, allowing to gain work experience and collect points towards pathway to Permanent Residency. 

Benefits:

Offering extended visa options not only promotes Australian economy, it also helps in research and development sectors. A lot of graduates and skilled workers are in the workforce contributing towards tax payments and development of this country. 

Granting extended visa options also allow such individuals to keep their job, make up for the time loss during lockdowns to find jobs and to have better chances of getting Permanent Residency.