Indian migrant raises alarm over Australia’s immigration screen

Understanding Australia’s Immigration Debate

The conversation around immigration in Australia has heated up recently, especially with planned protests from a group called March for Australia. Their rallies are stirring quite a bit of debate and concern, particularly among migrants and international job seekers considering Australia as their new home.

The Protests: What’s Happening?

On the horizon are protests aimed at addressing what some see as uncontrolled migration and weak leadership. The group argues that ongoing immigration policies are changing the country in ways many Australians might not have approved. Their slogans, such as “take our country back” and “stop mass migration,” have raised alarms about potentially harmful anti-immigration sentiments.

Mandeep Singh, a social media influencer, has spoken out against these slogans, suggesting they encourage division and resentment towards immigrants.

A Personal Perspective

Sameer Dhanda, an architect and senior heritage officer in Sydney, has shared his thoughts on the situation based on his experiences as an Indian migrant. He acknowledges that while some newcomers may not integrate well into Australian society, he believes this is a symptom of deeper issues within the immigration system rather than a reflection of the immigrant population as a whole.

“The screening process is not strong enough,” Mr Dhanda argues, and he points out that many individuals who arrive in Australia lack essential skills and social awareness. For instance, students who don’t thrive in competitive schools in India can find their way into renowned universities down under. This can leave them unprepared for Australia’s diverse cultural landscape.

Strengthening the Immigration System

Mr Dhanda suggests that a solution lies in improving the immigration system to ensure that it selects individuals based on merit. This would help attract high-performing professionals who can genuinely contribute to the nation’s economy.

Additionally, he mentions that many migrants strive to establish themselves independently rather than relying on government assistance. “If there are concerns about misuse of public services, we should also consider other groups,” he says, broadening the lens of the debate.

The Broader Implications for Job Seekers

For international job seekers considering moving to Australia, understanding these discussions about immigration can be crucial. On the surface, the immigration system might seem daunting. However, familiarising yourself with how visas like the 482 visa (Temporary Skill Shortage Visa) or the 189 visa (Skilled Independent Visa) work can increase your chances of a successful transition.

These visas often require proof of skills or qualifications, so make sure you have your documents ready.

Voices of Concern

Among those deeply concerned about the protests is Amar Singh, the founder of the charity Turbans 4 Australia. He expressed worries about safety for individuals like himself, especially during emotionally charged events like these. Singh encourages protest organisers to reconsider their approach, realising that intense emotions can lead to important conversations, but can also escalate into hostility.

Various social media influencers are advising fellow migrants to stay indoors during the protests, echoing fears about potential backlash.

Among all this, the group arranging the protests claims that many Australians feel overwhelmed by the pace of migration, suggesting that voters feel their views are overlooked by politicians.

They argue that this sentiment can lead to a dangerous narrative, framing migration as a threat to the country’s culture and resources.

A Call for Unity

Despite the polarising atmosphere, there are many voices advocating for understanding and unity. They remind us that migration is often a complex issue, involving cultural change, economic growth, and personal stories.

For those of you considering taking the leap to move to Australia or New Zealand, it’s essential to stay informed and grounded. Engage with communities like ours and understand the regulatory landscape, and remember that each person you encounter has a unique story.

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.

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