As the debate heats up, migrants are quietly keeping the bush running
There is growing concern that regional Australia is being overlooked in the national migration policy debate. Employers and researchers argue that many local industries rely heavily on migrant workers for survival and growth. The Coalition has proposed significant cuts to immigration if they win the next federal election, raising fears about the impact on regional communities.
- ▪Regional employers emphasize the importance of migrant workers for sustaining local industries.
- ▪The federal government has forecast a net migration of 295,000 people this financial year, significantly lower than previous years.
- ▪Opposition Leader Angus Taylor has indicated plans to cap immigration based on housing availability.
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Regional employers, academics say one-size-fits-all migration policy will decimate critical workforcesBy Melinda Hayter, Emily Doak and Anita WardABC RiverinaTopic:Migration PolicyThu 28 May 2026 at 5:44amThu 28 May 2026 at 5:44amThu 28 May 2026 at 5:44amRegistered nurse Vanessa Joy Hipolito with Trisha Newton at Allawah Lodge in Coolamon. (ABC News: Emily Doak)In short:There is mounting concern regional Australia is being left out of the ongoing national debate and discussion about Australia's migration intake.Migrants, employers and researchers say many industries in the regions cannot survive without overseas workers, and immigration provides both economic and social benefits to small communities.What's next?The Coalition has indicated that if it wins the next federal election it will…
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