The Australian government plans to reduce its annual refugee intake by approximately one-third, aiming to lower net overseas migration. The current humanitarian quota of 20,000 will be decreased to 13,750 by the 2027-28 fiscal year.
This reduction has been incorporated into budget projections forecasting a drop in net overseas migration to 225,000 in 2027-28. A government source indicated that the cuts are also influenced by the strain on resettlement services. The Labor government, elected in 2022, had previously increased the humanitarian intake from 17,875 to 20,000 in 2023.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese stated that the government is taking steps to manage migration responsibly amidst a global increase in displaced persons. Earlier this year, the government announced plans to reduce overall overseas migration from over 300,000 to 245,000 for the current year, and to 225,000 for subsequent years. However, the finalization of migration policy changes has faced delays due to internal cabinet divisions.
"We want to make sure we get it right, and we have got migration policy as front and centre," Albanese commented, indicating that announcements would be made at appropriate times.
Separately, the government has committed to not altering the visa rules for British backpackers under the free trade agreement with the UK. This agreement removed the requirement for these backpackers to work in regional Australia for three months to extend their stay. Since these rule changes took effect last year, the number of British backpackers in Australia has risen from around 47,000 to 80,000.
"The UK situation is a separate agreement as a result of the UK free trade agreement which we are certainly honouring," Albanese confirmed. This policy has been a point of discussion, particularly in light of political commentary regarding migration targets and the need for skilled workers in sectors such as aged care, agriculture, and construction.