Australia Immigration: Two-Thirds of Australians Want Fewer Migrants

A new survey has found strong public support for lower Australia immigration levels, with two-thirds of Australians saying the country should accept fewer migrants. The Newspoll survey found that 37 per cent wanted “a lot fewer” migrants, while another 29 per cent preferred fewer migrants.

Only 6% of those polled believed immigration should increase. Another 28% said migration numbers should stay stable.

Australia Immigration Views Differ Across Political Parties

The study revealed a significant disparity in opinions among supporters of Australia’s political parties. One Nation voters were the most likely to support restricting immigration, with 95% believing it should be lowered.

76% of Liberal-National Coalition voters backed a cut. Labour and Green supporters were more inclined to support maintaining current immigration levels.

Approximately 47% of Labour voters believed immigration should remain at its current level. That figure increased to 56% among Greens voters.

Immigration has emerged as a major political issue in Australia. One Nation has made opposition to increased migration a fundamental component of its political discourse, and the Labour government has also pushed for stricter immigration restrictions.

The Newspoll results were revealed just one day after Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke proposed major modifications to Australia’s visa system. The administration claims the measures are intended to limit net foreign migration and tighten visa requirements.

Under the new rules, future overseas students and graduate visa holders will be unable to bring family members to Australia. The government is also tightening the requirements for backpackers applying for second- and third-year working holiday permits.

Visitors who attempt to convert to another sort of visa while already in Australia will face more scrutiny. Authorities will also step up attempts to deal with people who remain in the country after their visas expire.

Burke stated that the revisions would prioritise qualified individuals needed in a variety of areas. These include construction, agriculture, fishing, and teaching.

Australians Divided Over the Impact of Immigration

The survey also asked Australians about their perceptions of immigration’s overall impact on the country. A slim majority, 52%, thought immigration had both positive and bad effects.

Views differed again amongst political factions. Approximately 51% of Greens supporters believe immigration benefits the majority of Australians, compared to 42% of Labour voters.

The figure among Coalition supporters was smaller, at 20%. Only 3% of One Nation supporters believe that immigration benefits the majority of Australians.

The findings demonstrate that Australians are still divided on the country’s immigration levels and their broader impact. At the same time, the survey shows that decreasing migration has strong popular support, particularly among people on the political right.