One Nation’s migration cuts face fierce opposition from farmers
One Nation’s proposal to cut Australia’s migrant population by more than 750,000 over three years has triggered strong opposition from business and industry groups.
The plan, announced by Pauline Hanson, would target temporary visa holders and people who overstay their visas. The number of temporary visa holders has increased from 1.6 million in 2021 to 2.9 million in 2026.
Under the proposal, visa overstayers would have three months to leave Australia or face a lifetime ban. Migration from countries facing terrorism or serious security warnings would also be paused.
One Nation would also reduce taxpayer-funded legal aid for visa appeals. Existing seasonal worker programs, including PALM, would continue, while universities could still enrol more than 100,000 international students each year.
Business Council of Australia chief executive Bran Black warned that a major reduction in migration could worsen skills shortages and slow economic growth.
The National Farmers’ Federation also rejected the proposal, saying regional industries rely heavily on migrant workers to fill essential jobs.
Environment Minister Murray Watt warned the policy could seriously damage the economy, while Health Minister Mark Butler said migration policy requires a careful balance between population growth, skills shortages and economic needs.
The debate comes as Australia’s net overseas migration reached 301,000 last year.
Labor is expected to announce its own migration policy, while the Coalition is yet to confirm a specific annual migration target linked to housing supply.
Stay tuned with Aus News Lanka – the leading platform for news for Australians.
Source : 9 News
Comments