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White Australia Policy
Although the White Australia policy predates Federation, and some of the elements survived until its official abolition in the 1970's, its importance is generally seen to centre around the years from Federation to the end of World War II. The 1901 Immigration Restriction Act was aimed at excluding non-white migrants, and did so by requiring migrants to pass a dictation test. -
Positive Contribution
Migrants have made a significant contribution to the diversity and productivity of Australia. In fact we are a nation built from the labour, skills and traditions of migrants. It is emmbedded in our history, has significantly contributed to the country's economic wellbeing and culture, and un doubtedly migrantion will play an important role in shaping Australia's long-term future. Australia is one of the most multicultural nations in the world. -
Post Second World War migration
World War II resulted in a sense Australia needed to increase it's population in order to be able to adequately defend the country - the concept of "populate or perish". Skill shortages were also key issue during this period og migration, and attracting skilled workers was an important migration goal. British settlers in particular were given special incentives and previleges to migrate. -
More Diverse Migration
There was a large influx of immigrants from South-East Asia during the 70's( some arriving as "boat people"), as a response to the upheavals and unrest taking place in countries such as Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos at this time. The 70's and 80's was also a time when multiculturalism became a strong focus of policy, emphasising the benefits of supporting cultural diversity and identity, while maintaining social cohesion. -
Immigration in the 21st century
Two of the major shifts in migration policy since the mid-90's have been an increasing emphasis on skilled migration, partticularly into high priority occupations and an increasing focus on temporary migration. Recent changes include more targeted priority occupations and an increased emphasis on employer-sponsored migration.
