Key facts
- Australia's annual refugee intake will decrease by one-third.
- The refugee quota will be reduced to 13,750 in the 2027-28 financial year.
- This decision is part of a broader strategy to lower net overseas migration.
- The government is also tightening rules for working holidaymakers.
- Refugee advocacy groups have condemned the move.
Australia's annual refugee intake is set to decrease by one-third, falling to 13,750 in the 2027-28 financial year, down from the current 20,000. This decision by the Labor government is part of a broader effort to reduce overall migration levels, aiming for net overseas migration of 225,000 in the next financial year. The move comes amid increasing political pressure from the One Nation party, which advocates for stricter migration controls.
Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke has delayed the announcement of wider migration policy changes, which will include tighter rules for backpackers and working holidaymakers. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese stated that the government is focused on aligning migration numbers with national needs and assisting the Australian economy, acknowledging a recent spike in support for One Nation.
Refugee advocates and the Greens have strongly criticized the reduction. Jana Favero, deputy chief executive of the Asylum Seeker Resource Centre, called the decision a betrayal of those seeking safety and accused the government of allowing One Nation to dictate migration policy. Greens spokesperson David Shoebridge described the move as punishing vulnerable people and a backward step for the country.