Calls Grow for National Migration Summit to Review Australia’s Migration System
More than 60 business, community and industry organisations are calling on the Australian Government to hold a National Migration Summit to develop a long-term plan for the country’s migration system.
Former immigration minister Philip Ruddock and former Department of Immigration deputy secretary Dr Abul Rizvi have joined the growing alliance, which is seeking a broader national discussion on migration policy.
The campaign, led by non-profit organisation SSI, aims to move the debate beyond annual migration targets and focus on Australia’s long-term economic and social needs.
The alliance includes organisations representing mining, technology, small businesses, aged care, social services, hospitality and regional communities.
A proposed National Migration Summit would bring together governments, businesses, unions, community organisations, researchers and migration experts to review the current system and consider future priorities.
The discussions would examine how migration affects workforce shortages, productivity, regional development and population growth, while also addressing community concerns about housing, infrastructure and the cost of living.
Mr Ruddock said Australia needed an informed public discussion about immigration, while Dr Rizvi called for a review of weaknesses in the current system and a more consistent approach to migration policy.
SSI chief executive Violet Roumeliotis said the growing support for the summit reflected a shared belief that migration was too important to be reduced to political arguments over annual numbers.
She said a national forum could help develop a long-term approach that balances Australia’s economic and workforce needs with community concerns and social cohesion.
The alliance is urging the Australian Government to bring stakeholders together to develop a migration framework that communities can better understand and have confidence in.
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Source : Press Released.
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