Australia’s Immigration Rate Falls: Not ‘Out of Control’

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The latest statistics reveal that net overseas migration (NOM) for the year ending March stood at just under 316,000. This marks a decline from roughly 335,000 in the previous year, countering claims from some media and think tanks about immigration being at “record” levels and “out of control.”

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, while migration remains relatively high compared to pre-pandemic figures, it has decreased from a peak of nearly 556,000 in September 2023. The previous year’s NOM was 493,800, indicating that current levels do not reflect record-breaking conditions.

Clarifying Migration Trends

Although migration has reduced, current levels are still significant compared to the average of about 230,000 annually before the COVID-19 pandemic. Treasurer Jim Chalmers pointed out that the current numbers are around 17,000 below Treasury forecasts for NOM and approximately 40% lower than during the peak of the pandemic.

Abul Rizvi, a former deputy secretary of the immigration department, stated that these figures challenge misleading narratives that stir anti-immigration sentiments. He explained how some organisations misinterpret arrival and departure statistics to exaggerate migration figures, urging a need for honest conversations about immigration and the government’s efforts to return to pre-pandemic levels.

The Future of Migration in Australia

Treasury officials anticipate a further decrease in NOM, estimating it will drop to about 335,100 by June and potentially settle at around 230,000 annually for the rest of the decade. The government seems uncertain whether this level is adequate, treating migration as a natural occurrence rather than something to be carefully managed.

Despite these uncertainties, Australia’s labour market has adapted well to the rise in immigration post-COVID-19, maintaining a stable unemployment rate of 4.2% for 18 months. However, if NOM doesn’t return to pre-pandemic levels, discussions about supposed “out of control” migration might resurface.

For those considering a move to Australia, these statistics can impact visa options. Visa sponsorship is available for individuals with in-demand skills, which can facilitate the journey to permanent residency (PR). Options like the **482 visa** allow companies to sponsor overseas workers, while the **189 and 190 visas** support skilled migrants aiming for PR. Understanding these trends is essential for your job search in Australia.

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