As Australians cast their votes in the federal election, permanent migration remained a key factor influencing voter’s decision making process.
New data released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) has revealed that the overseas-born population in Australia continues to grow, bringing debate for the social impacts of immigration on the nation.
According to the ABS, 31.5 per cent of Australia’s population in June 2024 were born overseas. This marks a noticeable increase from the COVID-19 pandemic years, when strict border closures and migration caps led to a decline in overseas-born Australians—falling to 29.9 per cent in 2020 and 29.3 per cent in 2021.
The recent figures indicate that permanent migration is rebounding, as international travel stabilises, attracting skilled migrants and students.
Permanent migrant Sasha Worth moved from England to Australia in 2015, under the skilled migration program, she was able to apply for a primary teaching job in Australia and work as a permanent resident.
“It can be easy to forget that many people who moved to Australia came here not only for a better life, but to contribute to the community here. I get to teach the next generation of Australians,” Ms Worth said.
“Permanent migration is something that is so important for the Australian economy, not only financially but also to add to the diversity of Australia.”
Australia’s strongest permanent migration gains began with large numbers of displaced peoples fleeing conflict in Europe post-World War II. Migration has diversified since then, drawing in skilled workers, refugee settlement programs and reuniting families. Today, more people migrate to Australia rather than away. Countries such as England, India, China and New Zealand are among the top sources of permanent migration to Australia.
Recent growth of permanent migration is not without its political and social implications. It puts pressure on infrastructure, housing, and other essential services. Simultaneously, migration continues to boost economic growth while addressing labour shortages in essential industries.
Australian-born resident Nerida Seidel said that the issue of permanent migration did affect her voting decision, but it was overshadowed by other policies that the major parties addressed.
“Migration wasn’t the key issue that directed entirely where my vote went. Issues such as the party’s beliefs and actions on abortion, gender ideology, religious freedom and freedom of speech, majorly impacted my vote,” Ms Seidel said.
“After considering the parties’ position on those issues, that’s where the topic of immigration and cost of living helped me work out where my final vote went.”
As voters weighed issues of affordability, security, and national cohesion, migration is likely to remain a key topic in public discourse.
Additional Reporting: Max Arnold
Feature Image: Paul Braven/AAP
