Aussie Migration: Essential Yet Unfairly Targeted

Understanding the Value of Migration in Australia

Migration is a hot topic in Australian politics. Many politicians connect with migrant communities while also addressing public concerns about immigration. These worries often stem from misconceptions rather than facts. Locals may fear losing jobs, facing infrastructure strain, or cultural erosion. During uncertain times, migrants can become easy targets for criticism, often influenced by sensational media and populist rhetoric.

However, the reality is quite different. On 31 August, just 1.2% of Australians protested against migration, while a remarkable 98.8% recognised the valuable contributions made by migrants to society.

The Real Impact of Migration

Migration helps fill skill gaps in crucial sectors like healthcare, engineering, hospitality, and IT. Migrants are often entrepreneurs, creating jobs and driving innovation. Through taxes, spending, and investments, they significantly contribute to the economy. Moreover, migration enriches Australia’s cultural landscape by introducing new languages, cuisines, and traditions, which fosters understanding and resilience in diverse communities. Many migrants rejuvenate local areas, especially in rural or ageing communities, bringing energy and balance.

The Contributions of Indian-Australians

Specifically, the Indian-Australian community serves as an excellent example of this contribution. They are the second-largest tax-paying group after British migrants. About 64-68% of Indian migrants hold degrees beyond a Bachelor’s and earn above the national median income.

This group collectively contributes around $46 billion in income and over $10 billion in income tax each year, representing over 3% of total government tax revenue. Indian international students add $8.5 billion to the economy, including $1.3 billion in taxes. In the workforce, Indian-Australians are prominent in sectors like IT (25-30%), healthcare (15-18%), engineering (10-13%), and education (8-10%).

Despite these contributions, public discussions often overlook the value migrants like Indian-Australians bring. Recently, some politicians have scapegoated migrants, claiming they burden resources and are manipulated for electoral gain. The real issue lies in fear, misinformation, and opportunism, not migration. Problems like housing shortages and inequality exist independently of migration.

Moving Beyond Scapegoating

Indian-Australians are essential to both the economy and cultural fabric. Their skills and tax contributions enrich communities across the nation. With festivals like Diwali approaching, it’s vital for politicians to acknowledge the genuine value migrants offer and move beyond political grandstanding.

As a nation, we must rise above scapegoating and focus on facts. Migration should be seen as a bridge that connects cultures, boosts our economy, and enhances our national identity. Embracing migration celebrates our history, diversity, and helps secure a brighter future for all Australians.

What do you think?

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