Indian Community in Australia Alarmed by Surge in Anti-Immigration Protests

Concerns Grow Among Indian Community Amid Immigration Protests

Recent protests against immigration in Australia have created a wave of concern among the Indian community, particularly among long-settled families. The tone surrounding immigration discussions seems to have intensified, leaving many feeling unsettled.

Shift in Attitudes

A chartered accountant based in Melbourne, who moved from Hyderabad five years ago, noted, “It feels like the tone has shifted in the last few months. Earlier, you would occasionally hear casual remarks, but now the rhetoric is much louder and more public.” Current data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics reveals that Indian-born individuals represent the second-largest migrant group in Australia, accounting for around 840,000 residents as of June 2023.

Impact on Daily Lives

While protests haven’t yet directly affected Indian-origin residents’ lives, worries about potential immigration policy changes are on the rise. Harsha Reddy Mangammola, founder of Dilse Australia, emphasised, “We’ve built our lives here, raised children here, and contributed to the workforce in every possible sector.” This highlights the significant role immigrants play in Australia’s economy.

Younger Migrants Voice Anxiety

Students and younger migrants have expressed concerns about how public sentiment may impact their job opportunities. A 25-year-old nursing student in Sydney shared, “My biggest fear is that this sentiment could translate into fewer opportunities. If public opinion hardens, employers may hesitate to hire international graduates like me.”

The Future of Student Immigration

Immigration experts warn that current protests could shape future trends in student immigration to Australia. Nevertheless, international students remain vital, with over 613,000 enrolments in 2023, nearly 17% of whom are from India. Many are studying crucial fields like engineering, IT, healthcare, and business.

These students not only support the economy but also contribute to housing demand in major cities like Sydney and Melbourne, accounting for about 76% of student housing need.

Economic Contribution

The international education sector is a key component of Australia’s economy, contributing around AUD 47.8 billion in 2023. This comprises AUD 30.5 billion from goods and services and AUD 17.1 billion from tuition fees, supporting over 250,000 jobs across various industries. This underscores the integral role Indian students play in both education and the wider economy.

As immigration discussions evolve, they could influence pathways for visa sponsorship and permanent residency (PR) for migrants. If you’re contemplating a move to Australia or exploring career options, it’s essential to stay updated on these changes.

What do you think?

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