Public opinion on immigration in Australia remains stable, with a significant divide across age and education levels. As the country approaches the next election, immigration policy has become a central and contentious issue for major political parties.
Immigration in Politics: A Comparative Overview
Immigration has become a central issue in the political landscapes of the US, UK, and France as leaders like Joe Biden, Rishi Sunak, and Emmanuel Macron face mounting pressures to manage growing immigration rates ahead of upcoming elections.
In Australia, public opinion on immigration has remained relatively stable, as shown by the 2024 Lowy Institute Poll. Conducted in March during heightened media focus on immigration issues, the poll indicates that 48% of Australians believe immigration levels are too high, with 40% considering them about right and only 10% believing they are too low.
Attitudes towards immigration in Australia are significantly influenced by socio-demographic factors. For example, only 33% of individuals aged 18-29 view immigration levels as too high, compared to 59% of those over 60. Moreover, 19% of young Australians think immigration levels are too low, versus 5% of older Australians. Higher education levels also correlate with greater openness to immigration; 38% of those with a graduate degree consider immigration levels too high, compared to 65% of those with up to year 11 education.
Views on cultural diversity remain positive, with 90% of Australians agreeing that it has been beneficial. Additionally, 71% believe free trade agreements, which often include provisions for skilled migration, are good for job creation. There is also broad support (67%) for relaxing visa requirements for Pacific Islanders, a sentiment consistent across various demographics.
As Australia approaches its next election, expected before May 2024, immigration policy is becoming increasingly politicised. Both the Labor party and the Liberal-National coalition have made immigration a key campaign issue. The ongoing media coverage around migration continues to influence public opinion, making it a prominent and contentious topic.
