Migration, Economy

Dolega defended the government's migration policy, stating that net overseas migration had decreased by 40 per cent from its 2022-23 peak of 538,000 to 315,000 in the 12 months to March 2025. Dolega argued that migrants play a crucial role in addressing skills shortages in sectors such as healthcare and construction, complementing government initiatives like fee-free TAFE. Dolega attributed housing and infrastructure challenges to previous government neglect and criticised the coalition for blocking the Housing Australia Future Fund. Dolega also noted that inflation had fallen significantly from over six per cent, supporting the government's economic management.

Henderson criticised the government for mismanaging migration in the national interest, noting that net overseas migration remained 46 per cent above the pre-pandemic ten-year average. Henderson argued that the absence of clear migration targets prevented effective planning for schools, hospitals, and infrastructure. Henderson highlighted that international student numbers were at record levels, contributing significantly to net overseas migration, despite previous coalition proposals to cap their intake at public universities. Henderson asserted that the government had failed to uphold its responsibility to manage migration levels effectively.

Dowling emphasised that net overseas migration had fallen for six consecutive quarters and was below Treasury's predictions, arguing that flexibility was essential for responding to labour market needs, particularly in healthcare and construction. Dowling rejected the notion of rigid multi-year targets, stating that a flexible system allowed the economy to adapt to global conditions and domestic demands. Dowling also addressed economic indicators, noting that the Reserve Bank held interest rates at 3.6 per cent after three cuts, with inflation trending down and remaining within the target band. Dowling criticised the coalition for opposing tax cuts and having a history of supporting unlimited student visas.

Hume argued that the government had reneged on its election promise to implement a framework for permanent migration based on principles and multi-year planning. Hume stated that the lack of transparency and specific targets made it impossible to plan for infrastructure, healthcare, and housing, exacerbating pressures caused by rapid population growth. Hume noted that current migration levels were significantly higher than long-term averages and Treasury forecasts, undermining public support for immigration. Hume concluded that the government's failure to manage migration effectively and account for its outcomes demonstrated a lack of political leadership.