The Australian federal government and the opposition are holding discussions on potential changes to immigration policy amid concerns that Net Overseas Migration (NOM) remains higher than desired.
South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskas has criticized proposals for deeper migration cuts, arguing that reducing skilled migration could negatively affect the economy. He warned against what he described as increasing political competition to lower migration numbers.
The debate follows talks between Opposition Leader Angus Taylor and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese regarding measures aimed at reducing migration levels. The Coalition has proposed policies that it says could lower NOM to below 170,000, including linking migration targets to housing completions.
Treasury forecasts indicate that NOM could decline to around 225,000 next year. Other measures reportedly considered by the government include changes to family visa requirements, limits on backpacker numbers, and adjustments to the work and appeal rights of asylum seekers
Assistant Minister for Multicultural Affairs Julian Hill has confirmed that discussions between the government and opposition are ongoing as they seek agreement on the next phase of immigration reform.
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