Recently, large-scale anti-immigration rallies under the banner of “March for Australia” broke out across major cities such as Sydney and Melbourne. Protesters carried signs like “End mass-immigration now” and even shouted slogans such as “White Australia”. Violent clashes occurred in central Melbourne, where extremist groups, including the neo-Nazi National Socialist Network (NSN), became involved.

For many prospective students and skilled migrants, this naturally raises the question: Does Australia still welcome migrants?

Source: Internet

Migration Policy Remains Stable

Despite the noise on the streets, government policy remains unchanged:

• No reduction in places: The 2025–26 permanent migration program remains at 185,000 places, with nearly 70% allocated to skilled migration.
• Severe workforce shortages: Critical sectors including healthcare, construction, education and IT cannot function without migrant workers.
• New visa pathways: The National Innovation Visa (NIV), introduced in late 2024 to replace the Business Innovation and Investment Program (subclass 188), targets highly skilled and innovative talent who can contribute to Australia’s economy and technological growth.

In short, for applicants with skills and capability, Australia’s doors remain wide open.

Why Are Protests Happening?

These demonstrations are largely a reflection of economic and social pressures rather than immigration policy itself:

• Housing affordability: Escalating house prices and rental costs have fuelled frustration, often unfairly directed at newcomers.
• Rising cost of living: Higher everyday expenses create a perception of “competition for resources”.
• Media and political rhetoric: Certain voices amplify the negatives of migration while downplaying the benefits migrants bring as taxpayers and contributors to the workforce.
• Extremist influence: Groups such as the NSN exploit public frustration to spread divisive, xenophobic narratives.

In essence, these rallies are an outlet for discontent, not a true indicator of policy change.

Government’s Position Is Clear

• Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke: “These rallies do not represent Australian values, and there is no room for division.”
• Other ministers: Strongly condemned racism and reaffirmed that migration remains central to Australia’s economic and social development.

Source: Internet

Migration Lawyer’s Perspective

As migration lawyers with extensive experience handling skilled visas and related cases, our professional assessment is:

1.Street protests ≠ policy change

Australia’s migration program is determined by the federal budget and parliamentary process, not by rallies.

2.Short-term anxiety ≠ long-term trend

While housing and cost-of-living pressures are real, policy settings remain focused on labour demand, demographic needs and economic growth.

3.Applicants should focus on what they can control

• Skilled migration: Maintain competitive points and lodge EOIs early.
• Student visas: Choose in-demand courses and regions, plan pathways to post-study options.
• High-calibre talent: The NIV reflects Australia’s commitment to attracting global talent.

Australia continues to need migrants—especially those who are skilled, adaptable and able to contribute meaningfully to society and the economy.

While anti-immigration protests may cause unease, they do not signal the closure of Australia’s migration program. In reality, the framework remains stable, with allocations and pathways intact. For capable, well-prepared applicants, now is an ideal time to plan ahead and secure opportunities.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us at Riverwood Migration (Email: enquiry@riverwoodmigration.com), or book a consultation. We are committed to providing transparent and professional migration services to help you secure your visa and achieve your goal of moving to Australia.

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