The Voice Referendum conducted by The Australian Population Research Institute (TAPRI) found that around three-quarters of Australians believe the country does not need any more immigration. This sentiment was echoed by 3001 Australians who participated in the survey. The survey highlighted concerns about the cost of living crisis, which many believe is fueled by mass immigration.
According to migration statistics, Australia’s population grew by 659,800 people or 2.5 percent in the year up to Sept. 30, 2023. Permanent migrants enter the country through the Migration Program for skilled and family migrants or the Humanitarian Program for refugees. Net overseas migration (NOM) accounted for 548,800 people, a figure that has been steadily increasing. Forecasts predict a further 375,000 people will arrive by June 2024, adding pressure on infrastructure, housing, and public services.
Critics of the overpopulation narrative argue that Australia’s issues stem from urban planning, infrastructure investment, and resource management rather than simply too many people. They suggest that with proper planning, Australia could sustain a larger population without the current problems associated with overcrowding.
The survey revealed that just over 70 percent of respondents believe Australia is too full, with concerns about the cost of living crisis being a major factor. Additionally, 49 percent of those surveyed expressed a desire for drastic cuts to immigration levels. The survey also assessed voters’ support for the government’s “progressive agenda” and its impact on migration policies.
In response to the survey findings, the government initiated a review of the migration system, which identified it as “broken,” “inefficient,” and “unfair.” A new strategy proposed by Minister of Home Affairs Claire O’Neil aims to reduce the migrant intake to 375,000 people and further to 250,000 in 2025.
The housing crisis exacerbated by mass immigration has become a pressing issue, with concerns about housing shortages and rising rents due to increased competition. Opposition members have called for action to address these challenges and have urged the government to follow New Zealand’s lead in NOM reform.
As the cost-of-living crisis persists and the housing crisis worsens, the issue of mass immigration is expected to remain a significant political topic leading up to the next federal election. Voters are increasingly focused on the implications of rapid population growth on infrastructure, housing affordability, and public services. Can you rephrase this sentence?
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