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By Jessica Thakur May 22, 2023
Australia's Migration Program is a crucial part of the Federal Budget process, with annual planning determining the size and composition of the program. Historically, the program has followed a 70/30 split between the Skill and Family streams, except for recent years impacted by COVID-19. In contrast, countries like Canada, the United States, and the United Kingdom have adopted different approaches to immigration planning.
Canada, for example, utilizes a Multi-Year Levels Plan, projecting immigration levels over a three-year timeframe. Their recently released 2023-25 plan sets targets to settle increasing numbers of permanent residents each year, focusing on economic resurgence and post-pandemic growth. The United States operates under the Immigration and Nationality Act, which establishes limits on worldwide permanent immigration. Their system includes family-sponsored and employment-based immigrants, along with diversity visa immigrants.
The United Kingdom, on the other hand, emphasizes border control and encourages legal migration through a points-based system for skilled migrants and other existing routes. They avoid setting arbitrary migration targets, focusing on attracting migrants based on specific skills and qualifications.
With many countries facing population and labor challenges, there is growing international competition for highly skilled migrants and workers in industries with a shortage of local talent. While visa settings and processes can enhance Australia's attractiveness, other factors such as salaries, labor market conditions, tax rates, housing, health services, education, environment, childcare, and social cohesion play significant roles.
Critics argue that annual migration planning may not adequately support long-term planning and resource allocation necessary for infrastructure and services required by a growing population, particularly composed of new migrants.
In summary, migration planning is an integral part of Australia's budget process, while international competition for skilled migrants intensifies. To enhance attractiveness, factors beyond visa policies should be considered. Long-term planning and resource allocation are vital for accommodating a growing population and ensuring necessary infrastructure and services are in place.
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