The Paradox Behind Calls to End Mass Migration in Australia

Protests Against ‘Mass Migration’ in Australia

Over the weekend, thousands of Australians took to the streets to protest what they labelled “mass migration.” Demonstrators voiced their concerns about various issues, such as the housing crisis, rising cost of living, and job security, blaming these challenges on migrants.

However, experts argue these claims lack merit. In fact, they highlight a paradox: the migrants whom protesters wish to see fewer of are crucial to Australia’s economy and workforce.

Understanding the Role of Migrants

Migrants as Scapegoats

Jane McAdam, a professor at the Kaldor Centre for International Refugee Law, shares that migrants are often unfairly blamed for various societal challenges. She explains that there’s a significant amount of misinformation surrounding the relationship between migration and issues like housing shortages and cost of living.

“This has been exploited by some elements of the community, particularly on the far right,” says McAdam.

The Importance of Migration

Associate Professor Anna Boucher from the University of Sydney argues that reducing migration wouldn’t effectively solve these problems. She points out that 50% of the Australian population has a migrant background, indicating how integral migrants are to the community.

Boucher adds that international student migration contributes significantly to the economy. Migrants fill vital roles in areas facing skills shortages, supporting Australia’s vibrant multicultural identity.

Migrants and the Housing Crisis

Senior economist Matt Grudnoff from the Australia Institute indicates that migration isn’t a key driver of the housing shortage. Following COVID-19 border closures, while migration has rebounded, population growth has levelled out to pre-pandemic figures.

He counters the narrative that population growth is outpacing housing supply, stating, “Over the last 10 years, the population has grown by 16%, while the number of homes has increased by 19%. The number of homes is growing faster than the population.”

Instead, Grudnoff points to factors like tax incentives for investors and a lack of public housing as the real causes behind housing affordability issues.

Indian Diaspora: A Valuable Contribution

In recent discussions, Senator Jacinta Nampijinpa Price sparked controversy by suggesting that the anti-immigration protests were linked to concerns over the Indian community. This led to backlash, as many view the Indian diaspora as a vital asset to Australia.

Opposition leader Sussan Ley affirmed support for Indian Australians, emphasising that Australia’s migration policy is non-discriminatory. Multicultural Affairs Minister Anne Aly mentioned that members of the Indian community felt unsafe after the protests, highlighting how political rhetoric could further divide communities.

Shail Wadhwa from the Council of Indian Australians remarked on the unjust targeting of the Indian community. He referenced a 2022 federal report that labelled this diaspora a “national asset,” noting that they are younger, more highly educated, and make significant contributions to the economy as taxpayers.

The Numbers Tell the Story

According to Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) data, migrants make up 26.3% of the workforce, with many holding university degrees. They are particularly important in key sectors, including hospitality, healthcare, and professional services.

For example, 15% of migrants work in healthcare and social assistance, with a significant proportion of registered nurses and aged carers coming from migrant backgrounds.

Migrants: A Solution for the Future

Experts maintain that migrants are not a problem but a crucial part of Australia’s solution to future challenges. Boucher notes that with the ageing population, Australia will increasingly rely on migrant workers. It’s important to meet the needs of this demographic through skilled migration rather than solely relying on the domestic workforce.

Grudnoff agrees, stating that Australia’s migration system is skills-focused, drawing in those needed to fill gaps in the job market. “They allow us to maintain access to essential goods and services that would otherwise be challenging to produce in Australia,” he explains.

Lastly, McAdam encourages a shift in perspective. Understanding migration as a potential solution to pressing national issues, rather than a cause, is vital for informed and constructive discussions. “Australia is built on the contributions of migrants, and our multiculturalism enriches our society,” she concludes.

— With additional reporting by Rayane Tamer and the Australian Associated Press.

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