Australia's Migration Surge: The Truth About Who's Coming to Australia

Migration is shaping Australia's future more than almost any other force.

In 2024, about 580,000 new residents arrived, while 240,000 left permanently – giving us a net migration gain of 340,000 people.

That's far above our long-term average, and it raises big questions about how our nation can handle such rapid growth .

But who exactly are these new arrivals?

In this episode of Demographics Decoded, we will discuss the significant surge in migration to Australia, particularly focusing on the role of international students and the implications for the economy, workforce, and housing market.

We explore the challenges and future trends in migration, emphasizing the need for a more strategic approach to immigration policy to address skill shortages and housing pressures.

Takeaways

· Australia's net migration reached over 340,000 in 2024.

· International students make up a significant portion of new migrants.

· The economic impact of international students is substantial, contributing around $65,000 each.

· Migration trends are influenced by global events like the pandemic.

· The current migration system needs to be more strategic and focused on future skills needs.

· Housing pressures are exacerbated by high migration numbers.

· The aging population in Australia necessitates continued migration for workforce sustainability.

· Political discussions around cutting migration often lack substance and are populist in nature.

· The housing market is influenced by policy decisions, not just migration numbers.

· A more targeted approach to skilled migration could benefit Australia's economy.

Chapters

01:17 - Migration Surge or Post-Pandemic Catch-Up?

05:17 - International Students: 1.1 Million Enrolled and Their Real Impact

10:52 - Student Pathways to Permanent Residency and Skills Gaps

16:25 - Why Australia Is Hooked on Migration for Taxes and Workforce

22:57 - Redesigning the Skilled Migration Pipeline for the Future

About Simon Kuestenmacher

Simon Kuestenmacher is co-founder and Director – The Demographics Group

Simon is a prolific media commentator on demographic and data matters and a columnist for The New Daily and The Australian newspapers.

He ranks as one of the world's Top 10 influencers in data visualisation. If you can't get enough of the kind of data that explains how the world works, make sure to follow Simon on Linked In or X (formerly Twitter) or any of his other social channels.

Click here for a media enquiry or if you would like to book Simon Kuestenmacher for a speaking engagement. His presentations and quirky observations are enjoyed by audiences from the financial services, property, government, education, technology, retail and professional services industries, among others.

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About Michael Yardney

Michael Yardney - founder Metropole Property Strategists has been voted one of Australia's 50 most influential Thought Leaders

While he is best known as a property expert, Michael is also Australia's leading expert in the psychology of success and wealth creation.

Michael is a #1 best selling author of 9 books and frequently challenges traditional finance advice with innovative ideas on property investment, personal finance and wealth creation.

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