Immigration has emerged as one of the top issues in the Covid-19 Australian economy and post-covid plans. Many have debated the topic of whether Australia should continue to allow immigrants to enter Australia, with economic strain being felt by Australian citizens following the pandemic. However despite common misconceptions, with the increase of immigration into Australia we see a correlation with an increase in national GDP. Tracking migrants as a share of the nation’s working-age population does however show that immigration is slowing in both absolute and relative terms.
Here are the top 3 reasons why immigration still matters:
1) Immigrants contribute to the economy: Australia’s economy is measured in part by its workforce and the way they pay their taxes. The more immigrants work, the stronger the workforce becomes, especially as the country’s population ages, retires and does not have as many children as before.
When immigrants enter the labour market, they increase the productive capacity of the economy and increase GDP. Their income increased, but so did the income of the natives. It is a phenomenon known as the “immigrant surplus”, and although a small part of the additional GDP goes to the natives.
2) Immigrants provide and improve health and social services: Many immigrants arrive in Australia young and pay for the health care system more than they need for its benefits. The cost of health care for the immigrants are generally invested in Australian. This underutilization of the health care system is known as the “healthy immigrant” effect. Furthermore, the federal government has increased the focus on immigrants on how settlement and related services can contribute to community harmony and social cohesion. For example, integrated support for humanitarian entrants, translating services, English language classes, and grants-based funding for projects to promote social cohesion and integration of migrant groups.
3) Immigrants are fully integrated into Australian society: Did you know that about one-third of immigrants to Australian have volunteered and two thirds are members of social organizations? And the longer they stay in their new home, the more they want to contribute: According to Statistics Australia, “Immigrants and their descendants connect with local personal networks and participate in activities Community activities, such as religious activities, are more likely to have a more significant number of acquaintances with the residents of the neighbourhood, so that the neighbours trust and volunteer.
If you ever encounter immigration questions or concerns about how to comply with immigration law in real-time. Contact us now to find out how Complize could help your business navigate immigration matters.
Authors: TJ & Jackson Taylor