World Immigration News

(Lowy Institute)Australia’s migration dilemma: short-term pressures, long-term costs

Release Date
2026-09-29
Media
Lowy Institute
Summary
Australia’s Intergenerational Report 2026 predicts that deaths will exceed births by the 2060s, highlighting migration as essential to population growth, slowing ageing, and supporting economic growth through skills, innovation, and international connections. However, the government’s latest migration reforms tighten restrictions, particularly for international students and their families, amid concerns over visa abuse and growing political pressure to control migration. Southeast Asian students receive some exemptions, but frequent policy changes may still make Australia appear less predictable to international talent.

Universities are particularly affected because international education generates A$53.6 billion in export income while supporting research, skilled workforce development, and Australia’s regional relationships. Education has also played a major role in Australia–Indonesia relations for more than 70 years. The article argues that migration integrity must be strengthened, but short-term political pressures should not undermine universities and other institutions that build Australia’s long-term skills, research capacity, international competitiveness, and Indo-Pacific connections.
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Australia

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