Thanks to migration, Australia has developed as a multicultural country. Australia together with New Zealand, Canada and the USA is considered one of the world’s major immigration nations. Over 7.5 million people have settled in Australia since 1945 when the first federal immigration portfolio was established.
There are many that have a negative perception of migration, believing that migrants are taking jobs away from Australians or hoping to get a free ride. That is not the case. In fact, those wishing to apply for a visa are required to meet eligibility criteria before their application is considered. There are many benefits of migration for Australia.
Economic Benefits
The biggest economic benefit of all is the contribution immigration makes to the Australian economy. It is estimated by 2050, Australia’s population will be at 38 million with migration contributing $1.625 billion to Australia’s GDP.
Australia’s Skilled Migration Program is open to migrants who can make a significant contribution to the Australian economy and fill positions where no Australian workers are available. The program is open to a younger workforce of highly skilled and motivated individuals. Skilled migrants have very high participation rates in the workforce and help stimulate economic growth resulting in more jobs. The program also plays an important part in developing regional areas by providing skills and labour which can’t be sourced locally as well as encouraging investment and promoting the regions.
The Skilled Migration Program is only available to those holding skills in the approved occupations list. The occupations list features skills and occupations affected by skills shortages and are unable to be filled by Australians. All migrants earning an income in Australia are obligated to pay tax.
Migration also brings about a demand for hospitals, medical services, housing and other essential services which in turn creates jobs. More housing means more jobs in construction, the need for health care results in more jobs for doctors, nurses and other medical personnel. These are all flow on effects that have a positive impact on the Australian economy.
Cultural and Social Benefits
Migrants have bought with them some wonderful cultural traditions giving Australians the opportunity to experience the traditions and cuisines of their homeland.
More often than not, there are any number of international festivals taking place on the weekend. Whether it’s the Lygon St Festa in Melbourne celebrating all things Italian or the Lonsdale St Festival celebrating Greek culture, the Sydney Chinese New Year Festival or Le Festival, a tribute to France in Brisbane; these festivals give us an insight into these cultures and make for a great day out eating delicious food and possibly partaking in some dancing or other traditional activity native to that region.
With the arrival of these cultures many years ago came food that was never before seen in Australia. Step into a dining precinct in any city of Australia and you will be offered a multitude of choices. Asian dumplings, Greek souvlaki, pizza and pasta from Italy, curry from India, Thailand, even Mauritius, the choices are endless.
Now, we don’t have to leave the house to sample the culinary delights of these countries. The range of international grocers and delis that has popped up has meant we can try to cook dishes that once seemed too ambitious and full of ingredients that were not readily available.
Migrants have truly opened the eyes and minds of Australians. Having been exposed to other cultures we as a nation have embraced travel to the various countries that make up our multicultural country.
Migrants have had a positive influence on Australia. They have contributed to enriching Australia’s history as the world’s most diverse nation, bringing with them not only great traditions and cuisine but the ability to help our economy thrive.
If you would like to learn more about any aspects of migration contact Visa Solutions Australia on 1800 828 008.
Travel Exemptions
While Australian borders are currently closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, travel exemptions may apply under the following circumstances:
– A traveller has a compassionate or compelling reason to visit Australia
– Overseas workers holding a Subclass 482 or 400 visa are required to undertake a job in Australia that cannot be filled by a local employee
Visa Solutions Australia has been successful in acquiring a broad range of exemptions, from critical workers to those needing to travel on compassionate grounds.
