Think Tank Criticizes Labor Government for Ineffectively Addressing Migration

July 17, 2024 TruthUSA

An analysis indicated that net migration intake from July 2023 to May 2024 was 445,510, exceeding the government’s target of 395,000.

Australia’s net migration intake reached 445,510 between July 2023 and May 2024, revealing the Albanese government’s failure to meet its pledge to decrease migration, as per a think tank.

Institute of Public Affairs (IPA) pointed out that these numbers, even without data for one month of the fiscal year, exceeded the federal government’s goal of 395,000 net overseas migration.

The calculation is based on Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) data on arrivals and departures, particularly focusing on long-term and permanent arrivals, which differs from the official migration data.

According to Kevin You, senior fellow at IPA, their analysis shows that the federal government will surpass its commitment to reducing overseas migration.

“The prime minister’s vow to halve the annual migration intake, just two months ago, appears to be empty promises, adding to the challenges faced by mainstream Australians,” he stated.

Mr. You further emphasized that the continuous influx of people in Australia exacerbates the cost of living crisis resulting from high rental and housing prices.

Previous research by IPA indicated that Australians were approximately $7,848 poorer per capita last year.

“Migration has and will continue to be a significant factor in Australia’s narrative. However, the current unprecedented migration intake is straining housing costs and infrastructure, failing to address worker shortages and leaving Australians worse off,” stated Mr. You.

Budget projections also foresaw a drop in Australia’s annual migration figures from 395,000 in 2023-24 to 260,000 in 2024-25 under Labor’s migration reforms.

These reforms included an increase in international student visa fees from $710 to $1,600 starting July, as well as modifications to temporary graduate visa duration and age eligibility.

Additionally, the temporary skilled migration income threshold was raised from $70,000 to $73,150.

Nevertheless, Australian Industry Group CEO Innes Willox criticized the restriction on skilled migration.

“To restrict the skilled component of the migration program would be a significant detriment to the economy. If governments aim to reduce the migration program for any reason, they should explore avenues beyond the skilled pathway,” he emphasized.

Last month, the ABS reported that 84% of Australia’s population growth last year was driven by net overseas migration.

ABS data revealed a 2.5% increase in the country’s population to 26.97 million in 2023, with natural growth decreasing by 6.4% to 103,900 people and net overseas migration rising by 26.3% to 547,300 people.

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