AUSTRALIAN IMMIGRATION NEWS

Australian Skilled Migration Programme to Continue

Tuesday, 16 December 2008

Australia expects to continue to accept high numbers of migrants into the country in 2009, despite global crisis.

Even though the Global Financial Crisis has severely affected the economies and net migration of countries worldwide, Australia's high migrant intake looks likely to continue, even with the Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) likely to reduce the number of migrant’s visas available for 2009.

Immigration Minister Chris Evans has stated that even with the Global Financial Crisis, the 2009 migration programme would have modest cuts in numbers.

There are increasing concerns with the credit crunch that may drastically reduce the number of people coming to Australia, and contributing to the already existing skills shortage. Minister Evans stated:

"What business has been very clear about is that you shouldn't overreact"

In May, it was announced that Australia's immigration programme was at an all-time high, with a record number of 133,500 skilled migrants moving to Australia, not including family and humanitarian visas.

Overall, Australia is taking over 200,000 immigrants a year with the new Rudd Government.

Chamber of Commerce and Industry President Peter Anderson also viewed his concerns with cutting the programme.

"A downturn of 1-2 per cent is not a proper basis for recalibrating a skilled migration programme".

"It needs to be looked at in the context of emerging gaps in labour market demand."

Mr Anderson said that the consequences of cutting the programme would drag the economy at a time where it needs to be stimulated.

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