Australia urged to pair migration openness with stronger integration support
The article argues that Australia can welcome migrants from any country while also being clear about shared civic principles and supporting newcomers to take part in society. It says integration is a responsibility for governments, and that multiculturalism alone does not explain the democratic and social values that unite Australians.
The article cites the Australian Values Statement, including equal citizenship, freedom of religion and expression, and equality between women and men. Police received 118 reports of forced marriage in 2024–25, up from 91 the year before; ABS figures show English proficiency among recent permanent migrants was 82%, compared with 91% for those who arrived more than a decade earlier. Net overseas migration fell from more than 500,000 in 2022–23 to about 306,000 in 2024–25, while housing, classrooms and services must also meet demand.
In short
- The article supports migration alongside clearer expectations for integration.
- It highlights English access and equal rights as practical priorities.
- Migration fell to about 306,000 in 2024–25, but housing remains a concern.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Australia can remain open to migration while making integration support and shared civic principles a stronger part of settlement policy. Clear commitments to equal citizenship, religious and expressive freedom, and gender equality can help newcomers participate fully, while language support and adequately funded services address practical barriers and build social cohesion.
The case against
Making integration a more explicit condition of migration policy risks treating newcomers as a problem to be managed or implying that cultural difference conflicts with Australian values. People can share democratic commitments without being required to assimilate, and governments should protect individual rights while addressing forced marriage and service pressures through targeted measures rather than broad expectations placed on migrants.
Explained simply
Australia has a long-standing migration programme that brings people from many countries to live, work and study. Its approach to multiculturalism recognises different cultural and religious backgrounds, while public services and community groups help newcomers settle and participate in daily life.
The Australian Values Statement describes principles such as equal citizenship, freedom of religion and expression, and equality between women and men. Governments also face practical pressures as migration changes demand for housing, schools and services, and as newcomers learn English and adapt to life in Australia.
Read the full article at the source →
Originally published by Daily Mail as “PETER VAN ONSELEN: Australia should welcome migrants from anywhere – but stop pretending integration doesn’t matter”.