Globally, the process of migration is a complicated phenomenon involving huge numbers of people moving from one country to another to escape from unstable conditions and to seek better living conditions and opportunities. Recent political upheavals have increased the number of those people who are seeking asylum in far off areas from their land 2. Since last two centuries, Australia has been shaped by immigrants. Immigration plays a key role in Australian population growth and economic development. The political trends have also impacted the country’s immigration policy, especially in the last decade.
This paper discusses these political trends and the fluctuations the Australian immigration policy has witnessed in
the last ten years due to domestic political trends, multiculturalism policy, two-step immigration policies, the recent asylum seekers issue and globally increased security threats.
Table of Contents
1. Introduction
2. Overview of History of Migration trends
3. Migration trends and its causes in the last one decade
4. Current Immigration Policy
5. Changes in Immigration Laws
6. Conclusion
Research Objectives and Themes
This paper examines the evolution and significant fluctuations of Australian immigration policy over the last decade, analyzing how domestic political trends, multiculturalism, new visa strategies, and security concerns have reshaped the nation's approach to migration.
- Historical context of Australian migration patterns
- The impact of the "Two-step" immigration policy on labor and the economy
- Political discourse surrounding the "Stop the boats" campaign
- Challenges related to multiculturalism and social integration
- Humanitarian concerns regarding asylum seekers and border security
Excerpt from the Book
Current Immigration Policy
The current immigration policy of the country is focused on two major aspects: policies under migrant programs and those for humanitarian programs. The migrant program of immigration offers work, student and family visas to the immigrants. The policies formed under this program are focused to gain skilled labour from foreign countries and make them constructive part of social development and economic progress. In last half a century, Australia has emphasized upon skilled people’s immigration so that they do not become a burden on the society. The skilled visas are a new process to enhance Australia’s Skilled Immigration Program. Therefore, government policies are made to attract skilled labour and students to get visas for the country. The employment visas and family visas are the gateways to get citizenship in the country. Government policies are formed to evaluate the skill level of applicants through an extremely sophisticated points system. Another program which is a key part of immigration policy is the Humanitarian Program. Australia has a history of accepting immigrants on humanitarian grounds as it did accept people in the famous post-war migration programs. Currently, the humanitarian program is further narrowed down to “Special Humanitarian Program” which supports those people who are subjected to persecution or severe discrimination in their homeland.
Chapter Summaries
1. Introduction: Introduces the global migration phenomenon and outlines the key domestic factors influencing Australian immigration policy shifts over the last decade.
2. Overview of History of Migration trends: Provides a historical perspective on the movement from selective immigration towards a more diverse demographic landscape shaped by post-war policies.
3. Migration trends and its causes in the last one decade: Examines political shifts, such as the "Big Australia" concept, and their influence on demographic projections and public policy.
4. Current Immigration Policy: Details the dual focus on skill-based migrant programs and the humanitarian frameworks currently utilized by the Australian government.
5. Changes in Immigration Laws: Discusses the hardening of legal stances against undocumented arrivals, specifically focusing on the "Pacific Solution" and "Stop the boats" policies.
6. Conclusion: Summarizes the transformation of immigration policies as a reflection of changing public opinion and the ongoing tension between economic goals and humanitarian responsibilities.
Keywords
Australian Foreign Policy, Immigration Policy, Skilled Labor, Humanitarian Program, Multiculturalism, Border Protection, Asylum Seekers, Stop the Boats, Migration Trends, Social Integration, Pacific Solution, Demographic Growth, Human Rights, Economic Development, Immigration Laws
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the central focus of this research paper?
The paper fundamentally investigates how Australian immigration policy has shifted over the last ten years in response to varying political, social, and economic pressures.
What are the core thematic areas discussed in the work?
Key areas include the history of migration in Australia, the transition to a two-step immigration system, debates over multiculturalism, and strict border protection measures.
What is the primary research objective?
The objective is to analyze the fluctuations in policy and the drivers behind Australia's increasingly rigid approach to both skilled immigration and asylum seekers.
Which scientific approach is utilized in this paper?
The paper employs a policy analysis approach, drawing upon historical context, demographic data, and current political discourse to evaluate government decision-making.
What topics are covered in the main body of the text?
The text covers the shift from permanent to temporary visa classes, the impact of multiculturalism policies, and the controversies surrounding detention and deportation practices.
Which keywords best characterize this document?
The paper is best characterized by terms such as Border Protection, Skilled Labor, Humanitarian Program, Asylum Seekers, and Australian Immigration Policy.
How does the "Two-step immigration policy" impact the labor market?
The policy results in a larger pool of temporary workers, which provides the government with flexibility but also creates a significant time gap before these individuals can transition to permanent residency.
How has the discourse on multiculturalism changed in recent years?
Recent years have seen a decrease in commitment to multiculturalism, influenced by global polarization, economic fluctuations, and rising security concerns.
- Quote paper
- Dr. John Chuol Muon (Ph.D.) (Author), 2016, How did Australia Immigration policy change in the last ten years?, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/1239223
