Australia’s Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke has announced a revised migration policy aiming to reduce net overseas migration to 225,000 annually, a decrease from the previous figure of 292,100 in the year to March. The announcement, delivered during a National Press Club address in Canberra on Thursday, signaled a shift towards prioritizing skilled migrants in sectors deemed critical to the economy, including construction, healthcare, education, law enforcement, and agriculture.
The new target contrasts with proposals from other political parties: One Nation has advocated for a net migration ceiling of 130,000, while the Coalition’s target is reportedly between 150,000 and 170,000. Burke acknowledged public unease over migration levels but emphasized that the government’s approach aims to support housing supply and economic growth rather than exacerbate existing challenges.
Burke outlined efforts to expedite visa processing for key workers through Ministerial Direction 119 and highlighted plans to curtail backpacker visa extensions, reducing the number allowed to stay for a second or third year. This crackdown on backpacker visas, which previously permitted large numbers to extend their stay, is intended to alleviate pressure on infrastructure while maintaining access to needed labor.
The minister rejected accusations of endorsing “mass migration” from One Nation leader Pauline Hanson, who criticized Labor for allegedly increasing its migration forecasts beyond original commitments, warning that Australia could receive an additional one million migrants over coming years if current trends continue. Burke responded by underscoring that these reforms were developed over the past year, well ahead of any political maneuvering related to One Nation’s rising popularity.
Opposition voices have argued that the migration reductions announced fall short of meaningful reform. Critics contend that the government has been slow to act amid rising migration numbers, particularly in recent quarters, and that measures to align migrant intake with housing availability have been insufficient. Some have also questioned the government’s portrayal of the housing shortage, with debate continuing over factors influencing housing affordability and living space per dwelling.
On the issue of temporary work visas, Burke maintained that allowing skilled migrants to bring their families is vital for attracting professionals such as doctors, nurses, and construction workers. This stance counters proposals to limit family accompaniment among temporary visa holders, which some argue could deter necessary talent.
The government’s package reflects a balancing act between addressing public concern about population growth and meeting labor market demands across multiple sectors. While immigration remains only part of the housing and economic challenges facing Australia, the policy adjustments mark a renewed focus on aligning migration settings with broader national priorities.