Everybody wants to cut migration but nobody wants to say how
The causes of migration are murky and it is harder for politicians to control than they would like to admit.
As Tony Burke hastily withdrew from a press club speech on migration, speculation grew about the impending policy. However, the cabinet could not agree on details, leaving migrants in the dark. Andrew Bragg, the Liberal housing spokesperson, attempted to clarify, suggesting that a reduction in migration could benefit the budget and economy.
He proposed moderate cuts to international students, working holiday makers, and post-study work visas. Despite this, Bragg's speech was not backed by the shadow cabinet, and some members vehemently disagreed. Matt Canavan, the Nationals leader, insisted that backpackers on working holiday visas should not face cuts, as they were not the problem and were needed in regional areas.
The Coalition remains divided on the issue, while Labor and the Nationals struggle to present a cohesive plan. Pauline Hanson's One Nation, known for its straightforward approach, might also be mired in confusion over migration targets. The concept of net overseas migration (NOM) is often misunderstood, as it measures both arrivals and departures, not just immigrants.
Furthermore, the NOM is not a dependable gauge of the number of migrants in Australia at any given time. Factors such as the pandemic have significantly impacted migration patterns, causing shifts in the NOM that politicians find challenging to control.
Written by urgent.news from ABC News AU's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.