Executive Summary
From 2 September 2026, Australian Child visa applicants must use new submission procedures. This is a procedural update for Child Visa application: how and where you apply, not a change to visa eligibility or requirements. The key changes: a new postal address (Melbourne, VIC), confirmed forms (Form 47CH for Child Migrant/Residence visa; Form 918 for Extended Temporary), and the continued courier address in West Perth, WA. Eligibility criteria, assessment standards, and visa outcomes remain unchanged.
If you’ve already applied, you don’t need to resubmit; your application is valid under transitional arrangements. Using the old address or incorrect forms from 2 September onwards could result in Child Visa application refusal.
Key Takeaways
- Three visa classes affected: Child (Migrant) Class AH (subclass 101), Child (Residence) Class BT (subclass 802), and Extended Temporary Class TK (subclass 445)
- New postal address effective 2 September 2026: GPO Box 241, Melbourne VIC 3001 (replacing Locked Bag 7, Northbridge WA)
- Different addresses for postal vs. courier: Using the wrong address for your submission method will cause rejection
- Forms confirmed: Use Form 47CH (Child Migrant/Residence) or Form 918 (Extended Temporary)
- Eligibility unchanged: Who can apply, requirements, assessment criteria, and outcomes all remain exactly the same
- Already applied before 2 September? No resubmission needed; your application is valid under transitional arrangements
- Pakistan adoption restriction continues: No policy change; continues from 2016 instrument
What Changes on Australian Child Visa Application
Background: Why This Australian Child Visa Update Exists
Australia’s Child visa procedural arrangements were last updated in 2016 (Arrangements for Child Visa Applications 2016/051). That instrument was set to sunset on 1 October 2026. Rather than letting procedural arrangements lapse, the Australian Government introduced updated legislative procedures, Migration (Arrangements for Child Visa Applications) Instrument 2026 (LIN 26/081), effective 2 September 2026. This ensures clear, current guidance on how Child visa applications must be lodged going forward.
This is not a policy change affecting who can apply or what the visa offers. It’s an administrative refresh updating the “how to submit” rules for applications.
The Procedural Changes on Child Visa Application
The Australian Government formally implemented the Migration (Arrangements for Child Visa Applications) Instrument 2026 (LIN 26/081) on 2 September 2026. The instrument specifies:
- Which forms applicants must use
- The postal address where applications must be sent
- The courier address for couriered applications
- Which visa classes are covered
All information has been verified against the official legislative instrument and Department of Home Affairs guidance.
What’s Changed vs. What Stays in Australian Child Visa Program
What HAS Changed (Procedural Updates)
| Change | Detail | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Postal Address | Old: Locked Bag 7, Northbridge WA 6865 → New: GPO Box 241, Melbourne VIC 3001 | Applications sent to old address from 2 Sept 2026 onwards may be rejected |
| Form for Class AH & BT | Form 47CH now specified in instrument | Must use correct form; incorrect forms invalidate application |
| Form for Class TK | Form 918 now specified in instrument | Must use correct form for Extended Temporary |
| Legislative Framework | 2016 arrangements replaced by 2026 instrument | Procedural clarity for new applications |
| Change | Detail | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Postal Address | Old: Locked Bag 7, Northbridge WA 6865 → New: GPO Box 241, Melbourne VIC 3001 | Applications sent to old address from 2 Sept 2026 onwards may be rejected |
| Form for Class AH & BT | Form 47CH now specified in instrument | Must use correct form; incorrect forms invalidate application |
| Form for Class TK | Form 918 now specified in instrument | Must use correct form for Extended Temporary |
| Legislative Framework | 2016 arrangements replaced by 2026 instrument | Procedural clarity for new applications |
What HASN’T Changed (Everything Else)
| Element | Status | What This Means |
|---|---|---|
| Visa Eligibility | Unchanged | Who can apply remains exactly the same |
| Required Documents | Unchanged | Same supporting documents required |
| Assessment Criteria | Unchanged | Same assessment standards apply |
| Visa Outcomes | Unchanged | Visa conditions and outcomes unchanged |
| Processing Times | Not addressed in instrument | Continue to use Department of Home Affairs estimate |
| Courier Address | Unchanged | Wellington Central, 836 Wellington Street, West Perth WA 6005 |
| Element | Status | What This Means |
|---|---|---|
| Visa Eligibility | Unchanged | Who can apply remains exactly the same |
| Required Documents | Unchanged | Same supporting documents required |
| Assessment Criteria | Unchanged | Same assessment standards apply |
| Visa Outcomes | Unchanged | Visa conditions and outcomes unchanged |
| Processing Times | Not addressed in instrument | Continue to use Department of Home Affairs estimate |
| Courier Address | Unchanged | Wellington Central, 836 Wellington Street, West Perth WA 6005 |
Key insight: This is a procedural, not policy, update. If you know who can apply for a Child visa, what documents are needed, and how the visa works today, none of that changes on 2 September 2026. What changes is where you physically send your application.
Australian Child Visa Update Impact by Visa Class and Subclass
Child (Migrant) – Class AH (subclass 101)
What is it? A permanent visa for a child of an Australian citizen or permanent resident living outside Australia.
What changed? How and where you submit the application.
- Form: Form 47CH
- Postal Address: GPO Box 241, Melbourne VIC 3001
- Courier Address: 836 Wellington Street, West Perth WA 6005
What hasn’t changed? Eligibility, eligibility requirements, visa benefits, or assessment criteria.
Child (Residence) – Class BT (subclass 802)
What is it? A permanent visa for a child of an Australian citizen or permanent resident already in Australia.
What changed? How and where you submit the application.
- Form: Form 47CH
- Postal Address: GPO Box 241, Melbourne VIC 3001
- Courier Address: 836 Wellington Street, West Perth WA 6005
What hasn’t changed? Eligibility, eligibility requirements, visa benefits, or assessment criteria.
Extended Temporary – Class TK (subclass 445)
What is it? A temporary visa class for individuals meeting extended child visa eligibility criteria.
What changed? How and where you submit the application.
- Form: Form 918
- Postal Address: GPO Box 241, Melbourne VIC 3001
- Courier Address: 836 Wellington Street, West Perth WA 6005
What hasn’t changed? Eligibility, requirements, visa benefits, or assessment criteria.
Required Forms for Australian Child Visa Application
Ensure you use the correct form for your visa class. Using an incorrect form could result in your application being rejected or returned without processing.
| Visa Class & subclass | Visa Name | Form Required |
|---|---|---|
| Class AH (subclass 101) | Child (Migrant) | Form 47CH |
| Class BT (subclass 802) | Class BT (subclass 802) | Form 47CH |
| Class TK | Extended Temporary | Form 918 |
| Visa Class & subclass | Visa Name | Form Required |
|---|---|---|
| Class AH (subclass 101) | Child (Migrant) | Form 47CH |
| Class BT (subclass 802) | Class BT (subclass 802) | Form 47CH |
| Class TK | Extended Temporary | Form 918 |
Action: Before lodging, verify which visa class you’re applying for, then confirm you have the correct form. Download forms from the Department of Home Affairs website.
New Submission Addresses for Australian Child Visa Application (Critical)
This is the most important change for applicants. Using the wrong address will cause your application to be rejected or misdirected.
Where to Mail Your Child Visa Application (from 2 September 2026)
Use this address if you’re sending your Child Visa application by post:
“Department of Home Affairs
Child and Other Family Processing Centre
GPO Box 241
Melbourne VIC 3001
Australia”
This address is new. The previous address, Northbridge, WA, is no longer valid from 2 September 2026 onwards.
Important: Ensure you have sufficient prepaid postage. It’s your responsibility to ensure your application reaches the correct address.
Where to Courier Your Application
Use this address if you’re sending your Child Visa application by courier:
“Department of Home Affairs
Child and Other Family Processing Centre
Wellington Central
836 Wellington Street
West Perth WA 6005
Australia”
No change. This courier address remains the same as the previous instrument.
Address Comparison: Old vs. New
| Submission Method | Old Address (until 1 Sept 2026) | New Address (from 2 Sept 2026) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Postal | Locked Bag 7, Northbridge WA 6865 | GPO Box 241, Melbourne VIC 3001 | CHANGED |
| Courier | 836 Wellington Street, West Perth WA 6005 | 836 Wellington Street, West Perth WA 6005 | Unchanged |
| Submission Method | Old Address (until 1 Sept 2026) | New Address (from 2 Sept 2026) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Postal | Locked Bag 7, Northbridge WA 6865 | GPO Box 241, Melbourne VIC 3001 | CHANGED |
| Courier | 836 Wellington Street, West Perth WA 6005 | 836 Wellington Street, West Perth WA 6005 | Unchanged |
Critical action: If you’re posting your application on or after 2 September 2026, use the Melbourne address. Do not use the Northbridge address.
Already Submitted Your Child Visa Application?
Worried that the procedural changes affect your pending application? Well, they don’t.
Transitional Arrangements Explained
If you submitted your Child visa application before 2 September 2026:
- Your application is still valid
- You do not need to resubmit
- Your application will be processed normally under the new instrument
- Your original receipt date stands: the date your application was first received and stamped by the department
This means applications sent to the old Northbridge address before the changeover will be accepted and processed without issue. The department’s transitional arrangements protect existing applicants.
Do You Need to Resubmit Your Child Visa Application?
No. The short answer is: Do not resubmit.
If your application was lodged before 2 September 2026, the department treats it as valid under the new instrument. Resubmitting could:
- Create confusion about your original receipt date
- Result in duplicate processing
- Delay your case
- Potentially extend processing times
If your application is already with the department, leave it alone and wait for processing.
If you’re unsure or facing delays on your Child Visa application, consider reviewing your application and situation background with our Registered Migration Agent here. There might some aspects that you miss that leads to delays.
Pakistan Adoption Restriction (Unchanged)
What This Restriction Is
The 2026 instrument continues the Pakistan adoption restriction from the previous 2016 instrument. Pakistan is the only country specified with adoption-based restrictions.
The rule: An application that claims to have been adopted in Pakistan will be invalid and refused without further assessment.
Why This Restriction Exists
This restriction reflects specific government policy regarding the verification and recognition of adoptions from Pakistan. It applies to all adoption periods; there is no time limit on when the adoption occurred.
What This Means for You
If you are not claiming adoption from Pakistan: This doesn’t affect you at all.
If you are claiming adoption from Pakistan: Your application will be invalid. The department will reject it. You cannot proceed with a Child visa application based on a Pakistani adoption.
If you’re unsure whether an adoption meets this restriction: Consult a registered migration agent or migration lawyer before lodging your application. A professional can verify your specific circumstances.
Who Is Affected?
This restriction specifically affects:
- Applicants claiming to be adopted in Pakistan
- Sponsors with children adopted in Pakistan
If this applies to your situation, seek professional advice before attempting to apply.
If you’re from Pakistan and unsure if this restriction applies to you, consult with our Registered Migration Agent to get professional, strategic advice.
What This Means for You
The impact of these changes on Child Visa applications differs, depending on your current situation.
If You’re Planning to Apply (from 2 September)
- Verify your visa class: Confirm whether you’re applying for subclass 101, 802, or 445 visa
- Get the correct form: Download Form 47CH or Form 918
- Choose your submission method: Postal or courier
- Use the correct address: Melbourne (postal) or West Perth (courier)
- Prepare your documents: Requirements haven’t changed; follow standard Child visa documentation
- Verify your eligibility: Ensure you meet visa requirements (unchanged)
- Check for Pakistan adoption issues: If applicable, resolve before applying
Timeline consideration: If you’re ready to apply, use the new procedures effective 2 September 2026. Don’t wait for clarity; the department has already published all necessary information.
If You’ve Already Applied (Before 2 September)
- Don’t resubmit: Your application is valid and protected by transitional arrangements
- Keep your receipt and acknowledgement letter: Your original receipt and acknowledgement date is your proof of lodgement
- Monitor your application: Use the department’s online tools to track progress
- Contact the department if there are delays: Use your original reference number
- Don’t worry about the address change: It doesn’t affect your pending case
Your application is safe. The transitional arrangements are designed specifically to protect applicants like you.
Action Checklist for New Child Visa Applications (from 2 September 2026)
Use this checklist to ensure your Child visa application is submitted correctly:
Preparation Phase:
- Confirm your visa subclass (101, 802, or 445)
- Verify you meet Child visa eligibility criteria
- Check that adoption (if applicable) is not from Pakistan
- Gather all required supporting documents
- Obtain correct application form (47CH or 918)
Address Selection Phase:
- Decide: Are you posting or couriering?
- If posting: Use GPO Box 241, Melbourne VIC 3001
- If couriering: Use 836 Wellington Street, West Perth WA 6005
- Double-check the address matches your chosen method
- Do not use the old Northbridge address
Submission Phase:
- Complete application form fully and accurately
- Attach all supporting documents
- If posting: Ensure sufficient pre-paid postage
- If posting: Keep a copy of your application and receipt
- If couriering: Obtain a tracking number
- Submit your application
Post-Submission Phase:
- Keep your receipt or tracking number
- Note the date you submitted
- Monitor your application using department tools (if available)
- Contact the department only if you haven’t received acknowledgment after 2–3 weeks
Common Mistakes That Could Invalidate Your Child Visa Application
Avoid these mistakes; they could result in your Child Visa application being refused without processing.
Mistake 1: Using the Old Northbridge Address
The error: Sending your application to “Locked Bag 7, Northbridge WA 6865” on or after 2 September 2026.
Why it’s a problem: This address is no longer valid. Your application may be returned, misdirected, or delayed indefinitely.
How to avoid it: Use the new Melbourne address: GPO Box 241, Melbourne VIC 3001.
If it happens: If you’ve already posted to the old address, contact the department immediately to request redirection or resubmission guidance.
Mistake 2: Using the Wrong Form
The error: Submitting a subclass 101 or 802 application using Form 918 (for subclass 445), or vice versa.
Why it’s a problem: Incorrect forms indicate you don’t understand your visa class. The department may reject the application or ask for resubmission.
How to avoid it: Confirm your visa class first, then download the correct form:
If it happens: Contact the department and request guidance on resubmission.
Mistake 3: Confusing Postal and Courier Addresses
The error: Posting your application to the courier address, or couriering to the postal address.
Why it’s a problem: The department operates separate mailrooms for postal and courier. Misdirected applications may be lost or significantly delayed.
How to avoid it:
- If posting: Use GPO Box 241, Melbourne VIC 3001
- If couriering: Use 836 Wellington Street, West Perth WA 6005
Remember: GPO Box is for post only. Street address is for courier only.
Mistake 4: Claiming Adoption from Pakistan
The error: Submitting an application that claims adoption from Pakistan.
Why it’s a problem: This will automatically invalidate your application. The department will reject it without further assessment.
How to avoid it: If you’ve been adopted in Pakistan, you cannot apply for a Child visa. Consult with our migration agent to explore alternative visa options.
Mistake 5: Resubmitting If You Already Applied Before 2 September
The error: Resubmitting your application under the new procedures because you’re worried about the changes.
Why it’s a problem: Resubmission creates confusion, changes your receipt date, and may delay processing.
How to avoid it: Trust the transitional arrangements. If you applied before 2 September, your application is valid and protected. Don’t resubmit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will these procedural changes delay my application?
These are procedural changes, not policy changes. They shouldn't delay applications submitted correctly after 2 September 2026. If you already applied before 2 September, your application is unaffected by the address change. However, if applicants submit to the wrong address, their applications will be delayed significantly and possibly misdirected. Using the correct address from 2 September onwards will prevent this.
Do the eligibility requirements for a Child visa change?
No. Who can apply, what documents are required, and how the visa is assessed all remain exactly the same. This is a procedural update only.
Can I still apply using the old address?
No. From 2 September 2026, the old Northbridge address is no longer valid. You must use the new Melbourne postal address if mailing, or the West Perth courier address if using courier.
What if I accidentally send my application to the old address?
Contact the Department of Home Affairs immediately. Explain the situation and ask them to redirect your application or provide resubmission guidance. Early contact may prevent significant delays.
How long does it take to process a Child visa application?
Processing times are not addressed in the 2026 instrument and haven't changed with this update. Refer to the Department of Home Affairs website for current processing time estimates. These vary based on visa class, location, and application complexity.
Do I need a migration agent to apply?
No, you can apply without a migration agent. However, migration agents can help ensure your application is correct, uses the right forms and addresses, and includes all required documents. This can reduce the risk of rejection or delays.
If I applied before 2 September 2026, do I need to resubmit under the new instrument?
No. Transitional arrangements protect applications submitted before 2 September. Your application is valid, your original receipt date stands, and you don't need to resubmit. Resubmitting could delay your case unnecessarily.
My application is being processed. Will the procedural changes affect it?
No. The department's transitional arrangements ensure applications already in the system are not affected by the procedural changes. Your case will continue to be processed under the original terms.
Is there a difference between the postal and courier addresses?
Yes. They are different addresses for different purposes. The postal address is GPO Box 241, Melbourne VIC 3001; meanwhile, the courier address is 836 Wellington Street, West Perth WA 6005. Use the correct address for your chosen submission method. Using the wrong address for your method will cause rejection or significant delay.
What if I'm adopted from Pakistan?
You cannot apply for a Child visa. This restriction applies to all adoptions from Pakistan, regardless of when the adoption occurred. Consult a migration lawyer to explore alternative visa options that might be available to you.
Still unsure how these updates are impacting your Child Visa application? Get in touch with our Child Visa assessment team to ease your concerns.
Expert Insight: Why This Update on Australian Child Visa Matters
The Procedural Context
The 2016 Child visa arrangements were set to sunset automatically on 1 October 2026. Rather than allowing procedural guidance to lapse, the Australian Government proactively introduced updated arrangements. This demonstrates a commitment to clear, current application procedures.
Why the Address Change?
The shift from Northbridge, Western Australia, to Melbourne, Victoria likely reflects operational and processing consolidation. The Department of Home Affairs has consolidated certain processing functions to specific locations. Melbourne is now a major hub for family and child visa processing.
Why This Matters for Applicants
- Clarity and certainty: Applicants now have current, formal procedures directly from legislation, not outdated guidance from 2016. This reduces confusion and the risk of rejected applications due to procedural errors.
- Migration professional responsibility: Registered migration agents must update their systems immediately. Outdated information provided to clients represents a serious compliance risk. Agents and agencies must audit their existing guidance.
- Transitional protection: The transitional arrangements are intentionally broad, protecting existing applicants from procedural disruption. This demonstrates that the government designed this change with fairness in mind.
The Broader Picture
This update is part of how immigration systems evolve. Legislation doesn’t change constantly, but operational procedures do. These updates ensure applicants and professionals always have access to current, accurate procedures. Staying informed about these changes is essential for compliance and successful applications.
Next Steps You Must Take
Your next steps depend on your situation:
If You’re Planning to Apply
- Download the correct form (Form 47CH or Form 918) from the Department of Home Affairs website
- Confirm the new postal or courier address depending on your submission method
- Gather your supporting documents (requirements unchanged)
- Prepare your application
- Submit to the correct address on or after 2 September 2026
Don’t wait. All information is now public and available. You can proceed confidently.
If You’ve Already Applied
- Do nothing. Your application is protected by transitional arrangements.
- Monitor your application using the department’s online tracking (if available)
- If you haven’t heard from the department after the expected processing time, contact them using your original reference number
No resubmission needed. Resist the urge to resubmit as it could delay your case.
If You Have Questions
- Official source: Visit Department of Home Affairs website
- Legal reference: Migration (Arrangements for Child Visa Applications) Instrument 2026, LIN 26/081; and Migration Legislation Amendment (Arrangements for Child Visa Applications) Instrument 2026 (LIN 26/100) for further amendment on the postal address.
- Professional advice: Consult our registered migration agent to get personalised, strategic advice
Why Professional Assistance Can Help
Our registered migration professionals will:
- Verify your eligibility before you apply
- Ensure all required documents are included
- Use correct forms and submission procedures
- Explain your visa rights and obligations
- Help you avoid common mistakes
- Represent you in communication with the department
- Increase the likelihood of a successful outcome
Important: Only use registered professionals. Unregistered consultants cannot legally provide immigration advice and may leave you at risk.
Conclusion
The 2 September 2026 procedural changes for Child visa applications are straightforward:
- For most applicants: Use the new Melbourne postal address or West Perth courier address, submit the correct form (47CH or 918), and follow the standard Child visa procedures. Eligibility and requirements haven’t changed, only where and how you submit.
- For those who’ve already applied: You’re protected. Your application doesn’t need to change; transitional arrangements ensure it’s processed normally.
- The bottom line: This is an administrative update designed to bring clarity and current procedures to Child visa applications. It’s not a policy change affecting who can apply or how visas are assessed. By understanding the specific changes and following the new procedures, you can ensure your application proceeds smoothly.
If you have further questions, consult the Department of Home Affairs website or our professional Registered Migration Agent.
We are a message away
We are complex visa specialists. As registered Australian migration agents with the Migration Agents Registration Authority (MARA), we are regulated in our professional practice and bound by the profession’s Code of Conduct issued by the MARA. Read our 4.9* score customer reviews to see how we’ve helped others like you.
Take the first step and contact us via email at [email protected], by phone at 1300 827 159, or through WhatsApp at +61494372414. Alternatively, you can book your consultation online, and it is backed by our 100% Money-Back Guarantee Program.
