It has taken Labor more than two months since announcing its review into the migration system to provide its terms of reference and who will lead the review.
Immigration Minister Andrew Giles has spent more hours at fundraising events for the Dan Andrews’ Labor Government this term of Parliament than the review committee has spent looking at the issues facing Australia.
It is a sad indictment that this review is needed at all. Labor had nine years in opposition to put together a coherent policy.
Labor’s review must answer the following questions:
• Can you protect the values that make us a desirable destination for migrants?
• Will you keep the borders secure?
• Can you bank the economic benefits of immigration while dispersing the costs?
• How will you ensure infrastructure and public services keep pace with your higher immigration levels?
• Will you accept more young, highly skilled migrants to increase the economic dividend for the nation?
• Do you have a plan for immigration and regional Australia?
• Can you get the balance right between temporary and permanent migration?
• Will you deliver a better Australia, not simply a bigger Australia?
