Migration

Senator Shoebridge argued that political parties use migrants as scapegoats to distract from underinvestment in housing and public services by the wealthy. Shoebridge noted that dwelling values increased by over 20 per cent during the pandemic despite net negative migration, challenging the link between migration and housing costs. Shoebridge emphasised that migrants do not control budget decisions or interest rates and called for solidarity with newcomers rather than blame.

Senator Polley defended the government's migration program as sustainable and focused on ending exploitation and rorts. Polley highlighted an investment of $85 million to fast-track skills recognition for migrants in construction and trades, noting that over 20,000 migrants had been made available for work. Polley criticised One Nation's policy as a political stunt that ignored the need for skilled workers in healthcare and aged care, and pointed out inconsistencies in their proposed caps.

Senator Whitten argued that the government had added 1.6 million people since taking office without building equivalent infrastructure, driving up housing costs and inflation. Whitten claimed that Labor was using migration to mask economic failures and keep headline GDP figures high while per capita metrics declined. Whitten stated that One Nation would deliver net negative migration for three years to reset the system and prioritise the living standards of existing Australians.

Senator Stewart opposed the motion, arguing that it scapegoated migrants for complex issues like housing and productivity. Stewart cited meetings with regional businesses in Shepparton that relied on migrant workers for agriculture and manufacturing. Stewart stated that the government had reduced net overseas migration by 45 per cent from its post-pandemic peak to 301,000, ensuring sustainable levels while maintaining essential services.

Senator Bell argued that net overseas migration had driven population growth from 26 million to 27.8 million since June 2020, straining housing and services. Bell noted that nearly 80% of temporary residents reside in capital cities, challenging the argument that high migration is necessary for regional needs. Bell cited Canada's reduction in temporary resident targets as evidence that lowering migration can improve per capita GDP.

Senator McKim criticised the Labor Party for allowing One Nation and the Coalition to dictate migration policy through a race to the bottom. McKim argued that Labor was failing to defend migrants and was instead capitulating to far-right rhetoric, which legitimises anti-immigration sentiments. McKim highlighted Labor's historical support for restrictive policies and called for the party to stand firmly against demonising migrants.