Bangladesh, Sept. 19 -- Australia is tightening its migration rules, including restricting most international students from bringing partners and children, as the government seeks to reduce net migration to pre-pandemic levels.

Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke said the reforms are expected to lower annual net migration to about 225,000 by 2028, from roughly 300,000 currently.

Under the new rules, most international students will no longer be able to include family members on their student visas. Exceptions will apply to some students from Pacific Island nations and Southeast Asia.

Students seeking to renew their visas will generally need to progress to a higher qualification level. The government will also introduce a ballot system for...