Australia immigration policy has become a major political talking point, with both major parties and their biggest threat, One Nation, already releasing their plans to reduce migration. As the next federal election could be up to two years away, the debate over how to manage net overseas migration (Nom) is heating up.
How Do the Parties' Immigration Policies Compare?
Labor, the Coalition, and One Nation have each proposed different approaches to cutting migration numbers. Below is a comparison of their key policies.
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| Party | Net Overseas Migration Target | Key Policies |
|---|---|---|
| Labor | 245,000 (2024-25), 225,000 (2027-28) | Prioritise skilled visas, slow less critical applications, restrict student visa hopping, extend working holiday visa wait times |
| Coalition | 160,000 (first year), 140,000 (second year) | Cut permanent migration, reduce humanitarian intake, cap international students, tighten family visas |
| One Nation | 70,000 (net) | Moratorium on most immigration, drastically cut temporary visas, prioritise Australian workers |
Labor's Immigration Policy
Labor has promised to introduce rules to achieve net overseas migration of 245,000 this financial year and 225,000 in 2027-28. In September, home affairs minister Tony Burke announced ministers would be able to prioritise visa applicants with in-demand skills, including in healthcare, construction, education, and law enforcement. Other less critical visa applications are being slowed down to reduce the intake.
Wait times for working holidaymaker visa applications will be stretched to three months to reduce the number entering the country. A ballot system for years two and three with regional work requirements will be introduced. So-called visa hopping by international students will also be restricted, Burke said, as would visas for family members of students.
Coalition's Immigration Policy
The Coalition has taken a tougher stance, pledging to cut permanent migration to 160,000 in its first year and 140,000 in its second year. It plans to reduce the humanitarian intake, cap international student numbers, and tighten family visa rules. The Coalition argues these measures will ease pressure on housing and infrastructure.
One Nation's Immigration Policy
One Nation has proposed the most drastic cuts, calling for a net overseas migration target of just 70,000. The party advocates for a moratorium on most immigration, a sharp reduction in temporary visas, and prioritising Australian workers. One Nation claims its policies will protect Australian jobs and culture.
Key Takeaways
- Labor aims for a gradual reduction in Nom to 225,000 by 2027-28, focusing on skilled migration.
- The Coalition plans deeper cuts, targeting 140,000 by its second year, with stricter rules on students and family visas.
- One Nation proposes the most severe cuts, with a net target of 70,000 and a moratorium on most immigration.
- All parties agree on the need to reduce migration but differ significantly on the scale and methods.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is net overseas migration (Nom)?
Net overseas migration is the overall gain or loss of population through long-term arrivals and departures. It differs from permanent migration, which tracks the annual number of long-term visas offered to skilled workers and family members.
How does Labor plan to reduce immigration?
Labor plans to reduce net overseas migration to 245,000 this financial year and 225,000 in 2027-28 by prioritising skilled visas, slowing less critical applications, restricting student visa hopping, and extending working holiday visa wait times.
What are the Coalition's immigration targets?
The Coalition aims to cut permanent migration to 160,000 in its first year and 140,000 in its second year, with reductions in humanitarian intake, caps on international students, and tighter family visa rules.
What is One Nation's immigration policy?
One Nation proposes a net overseas migration target of 70,000, a moratorium on most immigration, drastic cuts to temporary visas, and prioritising Australian workers.
As the election approaches, the debate over Australia immigration policy will only intensify. Stay informed on how each party plans to reshape the nation's migration landscape.
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