An overhaul of Australia’s migration program is being sold as a boost for regional areas who are struggling to grow their population.

The changes will make it easier for people to settle in regional areas, but harder for foreign students to stay in the country.

23,000 skilled regional visas will be available, which the government is hopeful will fill skills shortages in the bush.

Immigration Minister David Coleman tells Karl Stefanovic it’s a huge “boost for the bush”.

“What we’re doing is saying 23,000 spots are dedicated in the program for people that commit to regional Australia for at least three years, and we are pulling back on the total rate of migration.

“We’re actually encouraging foreign students to settle in regional Australia as well. If they go to a regional uni, they’ll get an extra year on their graduate visa.”

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