## 🇦🇺 Australia Migration: Stability Amidst Public Debate

• Policy Outlook: Despite rising anti-immigration headlines and housing pressures, Australia’s migration framework remains stable. Legal changes are slow-moving and structured, ensuring the system does not shift based on media sentiment or political rhetoric. • Economic Necessity: Migration is a long-term structural requirement. Industries such as health services (nurses/carers), construction (engineers), and the ICT/BPM sector (cyber security/AI) face chronic workforce shortages that the domestic population cannot fill. • Program Focus: The migration program is evolving rather than shrinking. Skilled migration remains the largest component of the permanent intake, with a continued emphasis on regional pathways and employer-sponsored visas to support national infrastructure. • Key Takeaways for Sri Lankans: • Eligibility is strictly based on points, skills, and qualifications, not public opinion. • Government planning levels remain substantial to counter an ageing population. • Focus on maximizing points and accurate skills assessments to remain a strong candidate. _Note: Based on expert analysis from certified migration consultants (January 2026)._