The freeze, due to take effect on 21 January, targets people officials say are likely to become a “public charge” by relying on government assistance.

Each forged certificate was sold for between AUD 1,350 and AUD 2,700, while investigators say some buyers paid as much as AUD 3,600 to AUD 7,300, generating crores of rupees in illegal profits.

"Around 20 percent of our urban public transport driver workforce is here on a temporary work visa, and those visas are expiring in 2026."

Failed asylum seekers who remain in Australia have passed 100,000 for the first time, reaching 101,976 as of 31 October, with a further 26,298 claims awaiting decisions.

The individuals had arrived under Operation Allies Refuge or Operation Allies Welcome during the chaotic withdrawal from Afghanistan.

“These are not just 440 drivers – these are 440 families. And this also means 440 fewer trucks delivering essential supplies around the country at the busiest time of the year.”

These operators use community networks to funnel clients into fake partner-visa applications, often setting up satellite offices and social media accounts

Recent anti-immigration rallies across the country have brought it further into the public spotlight.

Justice Susanne Stushnoff found that Ritik Sibbal, who came to Canada in 2019 to study business, knowingly entered an unlawful deal with Grande Prairie resident Rajiv Chourhary Nathyal.

If the visa issue is not resolved swiftly, Nagal may miss the playoff, potentially jeopardising his chances to secure a wildcard entry into the 2026 Grand Slam season opener.