Australia's migration debate heats up as NOM hits record
Australia's net overseas migration hit almost 550,000 in 2023. Economists warn cutting immigration could harm regional areas.
Net overseas migration to Australia reached almost 550,000 people in 2023, a record high that triggered fierce debate over immigration policy. One Nation is pushing for substantial cuts to international student numbers and skilled migration.
Research shows opposition to immigration is strongest in areas with the fewest migrants. Experts say these areas could also be among the worst hit by wide-ranging cuts.
One Nation has proposed such cuts. Some temporary visa holders are vital to these regions for workers and services.
The Department of Home Affairs says 2.9 million temporary visa holders were in Australia as of July 2026. Immigration expert Abul Rizvi says the post-pandemic surge caught people by surprise.
- almost 550,000 people
- Net overseas migration 2023
- 2.9 million
- Temporary visa holders July 2026
- dropped to a fifth of pre-pandemic levels
- Pre-pandemic decline by March 2021
Why it mattersHow Australia sets its migration numbers will shape wages and housing costs. It will also affect service delivery across the economy and regions.
AustraliaAustralia faces political pressure to cut migration, but economists warn this could hurt regional economies and worsen housing and workforce shortages.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 13 d ago
