Under the Southern Cross: Aussie Bishops Urge Welcome for Migrants

Welcoming Migrants in Australia

Australia has a rich history of migration, and we’re proud of how it shapes our society. Recently, Australia’s bishops have highlighted the need for a compassionate approach to welcoming migrants, coinciding with the 75th anniversary of a landmark letter that significantly influenced how our nation responds to those seeking refuge.

A Legacy of Compassion

The letter, titled “Under the Southern Cross: A Journey of Faith and Unity,” was released by the Bishops’ Commission for Evangelization, Laity, and Ministry. It celebrates the 1950 pastoral letter, “On Immigration,” which urged our community to show “great generosity” towards displaced Europeans after World War II.

The anniversary letter echoes the sentiments of the original document, reminding us that Australia continues to be a sanctuary for many people. It highlights the importance of extending patience, kindness, and practical assistance to new arrivals—those fleeing hardships or seeking new opportunities in our beautiful country.

Archbishop Christopher Prowse, chair of the commission, emphasises that migrants have greatly enriched our nation. He notes the profound contributions made by diverse cultural traditions and experiences.

Did you know that about a third of Australia’s population—approximately 8.2 million people—were born overseas? This statistic showcases the vibrant diversity we enjoy.

The Landscape of Migration Today

Over the years, Australia’s migration patterns have shifted significantly. Instead of a predominantly European influx as seen in the 1950s, our recent migrant community now includes individuals from all over the world.

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, in 2023-24, Australia welcomed 667,000 new residents from countries such as China, the Philippines, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, Iraq, and Myanmar. These statistics reflect our continuing appeal as a destination for those in search of better lives.

A Diverse Catholic Community

Today, the Catholic community mirrors this diversity. As noted in the 2021 Australian Census, there are over 5 million Catholics in Australia, making up about 20% of the population. While this represents a decline from previous years (22.6% in 2016), it’s important to note that a significant portion—21.4%—are born in countries where English is not the primary language.

Mass is now celebrated in a staggering 42 languages across Australia, reflecting the cultural richness of our community. The bishops acknowledge that while we’ve made strides in fostering a multicultural society, challenges like bias and discrimination persist.

Responding to Modern Challenges

The current climate brings its challenges, including rising tensions where international conflicts spill over into our nation. This creates divisions and unrest, potentially threatening community cohesion.

The bishops ground their message in Scripture, referencing Matthew 25:40, which prompts us to consider how we treat others. The call to welcome those in need resonates strongly, especially in times of discord. As St. John Paul II wisely asked, how can we truly welcome others if we close our doors to those seeking refuge?

A Flourishing Future

Interestingly, Australia’s Catholic community is experiencing what Sydney Archbishop Anthony Fisher labels a “second spring” of faith. Easter 2025 saw a record 384 adult converts, a 30% increase from the previous year, with many hailing from migrant backgrounds, notably Chinese and Indonesian.

The bishops remind us that the stories, traditions, and wisdom of migrants contribute to Australia becoming a more vibrant and flourishing society. Their message wraps up with a call to action from Pope Leo XIV, urging Catholics to be living witnesses of hope and to assist migrants in expressing their talents within our communities.

Migrating to a new country can seem daunting, but Australia offers a welcoming environment rich in opportunities for growth. If you are considering moving here, remember that your unique background will be an asset to our diverse tapestry.

What do you think?

Have a question about this topic or your own plans to move to Australia or New Zealand? Scroll down and leave a comment. We’d love to hear from you.

Thinking about moving to Australia?

Join our free and supportive community at Oz Visa Forum.
Post in our forums to get advice and support from people who’ve already made the move.

Not sure where to start? Click here to get started