Rightwing rhetoric in Australia often scapegoats immigrants, blaming them for economic hardships and cultural erosion. However, such claims are both untrue and ignore the significant contributions immigrants make to the nation.
The Reality of Immigration
Immigrants do not arrive on a whim. The primary visa pathways are for skilled workers, family reunification, or students. These require substantial financial resources, extensive documentation, and often entail commitments to fill skills gaps or live in regional areas. Asylum seekers constitute only a minority of new arrivals.
Personal Experience
The author's family migrated in 1992. Her father, an electrical engineer, secured a position after confirmation that no local candidates were available. Her mother worked at a supermarket. They later owned businesses, paid taxes for 30 years, and never relied on welfare. They also contributed to their community through school boards, charities, and employment.
Why People Migrate
Migration is a difficult decision, often driven by necessity. The author's family left Fiji due to violent coups and racist policies. They would have preferred to stay if safety and economic security were possible.
Historical Context
Australia is built on stolen land and convict labor, not inherent cultural superiority. Its prosperity has always relied on immigrant skills and labor. Blaming immigrants for economic issues is a political tactic that fuels racism.
The notion that immigrants are selfishly taking jobs and homes is false, given the strict immigration system. Immigrants contribute economically and socially, and their presence strengthens the nation.
