Radio Brisvaani
Brisbane, September 23 (MCCQ Newsdesk)
The Federation of Ethnic Communities’ Councils of Australia (FECCA) has called for Australia’s migration policy to be guided by long-term national needs, labour-market evidence and future skills requirements, saying any changes to the migration programme should be supported by economic modelling and consultation with multicultural communities and affected sectors.
The call follows recognition by Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke that Australia’s migration programme needs to be managed in a targeted way while protecting the country’s economic interests, according to FECCA.
FECCA Chair Peter Doukas said migration policy should reflect Australia’s long-term national interests. He said decisions on the size and composition of the migration programme should take account of labour-market evidence, infrastructure planning and future skills requirements.
FECCA said migration had contributed to Australia’s economy, essential services and communities, while warning that poorly targeted reductions could affect the availability of workers in areas such as construction, aged care, hospitals and growing industries.
The organisation has also raised concerns about proposals that could make it more difficult for international students and skilled migrants to bring their partners and children to Australia.
FECCA said family considerations could influence whether skilled migrants and international students choose Australia, remain in the country and contribute over the longer term.
FECCA CEO Prerana Mehta said Australia competes internationally for students, researchers and skilled professionals and needs policies that support its ability to attract and retain global talent.
The organisation also argued that net overseas migration should not be treated as a standalone solution to challenges involving housing, infrastructure and workforce planning.
FECCA said reducing migration would not automatically build more homes, train additional workers or improve infrastructure, and called for coordinated investment and long-term planning to address those challenges.
The organisation also said migration policy should be considered alongside opportunities for Australian workers, including investment in local education, training and workforce development. It called for greater recognition and use of the qualifications and experience of people already living in Australia.
FECCA has called on the Australian Government to support any migration changes with transparent evidence and economic modelling and to undertake meaningful consultation with multicultural communities, industry, unions, universities and service providers.
The organisation said established multicultural communities, permanent residents and Australian citizens should be included in discussions about the size and composition of Australia’s migration programme rather than being treated as outsiders.
