Opposition leader Angus Taylor has pledged that a Coalition government would cut net overseas migration to 100,000 for two years, describing it as the biggest reduction in Australia's history.
Key facts
- Net overseas migration would be cut to 100,000 for two years under a Coalition government.
- Migration would then rise to 130,000 in the third year and 160,000 in the fourth.
- The plan includes tougher screening of visa applicants and a revised temporary skilled priority list.
- A new Aukus and Five Eyes visa would double the talent and innovation allocation to 7,000 places.
- A new Agriculture Visa is proposed from 2030.
Opposition leader Angus Taylor has announced that a Coalition government would cut net overseas migration to 100,000 for two years, describing the plan as “the biggest cut to immigration in the history” of Australia, according to the Guardian.
The announcement, made on Tuesday by the Liberal and Nationals, comes as One Nation and Labor have also moved to capitalise on growing anti-migration sentiment, the Guardian reported. Under the Coalition proposal, net overseas migration would rise to 130,000 in the third year and 160,000 in the fourth year, following the initial two-year reduction.
The policy package includes tougher screening of visa applicants and a revision of the temporary skilled priority list. The Coalition also plans to establish a strike force to clear the backlog of skilled construction applications, which Taylor’s party says would help address workforce shortages.
Among the measures, the Coalition would double the talent and innovation allocation to 7,000 places through a new Aukus and Five Eyes visa. The plan would also link each student visa to the enrolling institution.
The Coalition has further proposed introducing a new Agriculture Visa from 2030, according to the Guardian.
The announcement positions migration as a central issue, with the opposition framing its approach as a direct response to public concern over migration levels. The Guardian noted the move follows efforts by both One Nation and Labor to respond to the same sentiment.
Why it matters
Migration policy affects housing, the labour market and public services, making it a key issue for voters and businesses alike. A pledge to dramatically cut net overseas migration signals a major shift that could reshape Australia's economic and population planning if the Coalition wins government.
Frequently asked questions
How much would the Coalition cut net overseas migration?
According to the Guardian, the Coalition would reduce net overseas migration to 100,000 for two years, then raise it to 130,000 in the third year and 160,000 in the fourth year.
What new visas has the Coalition proposed?
The Coalition has proposed a new Aukus and Five Eyes visa, which would double the talent and innovation allocation to 7,000 places, and a new Agriculture Visa from 2030.
What changes would be made to student visas?
Under the plan, each student visa would be linked to the enrolling institution, according to the Guardian.