Submission to A Migration System for Australia’s Future
FECCA outlines a vision for a fair, inclusive, and future-focused migration system, emphasising that Australia’s migration system should prioritise permanency, simplicity, and inclusivity to fully harness the social and economic potential of its diverse population. The submission identifies current systemic barriers, including complex visa pathways, high costs, inconsistent processing times, and overuse of temporary visas. It proposes reforms based on six best-practice principles: fairness, timeliness, transparency, simplicity, informed decision-making, and safety, advocating for streamlined visa categories, reduced fees, clear pathways to citizenship, and stronger support for family reunification and humanitarian visas.
FECCA also highlights the importance of addressing systemic inequities, including improving skills recognition processes, creating industry-sponsored visa programs to reduce exploitation, and ensuring migrants receive adequate orientation and support upon arrival. The submission emphasises the need to recognise migrants’ diverse skills and life experiences, particularly for bilingual and bicultural roles, which are vital in sectors like healthcare. Case studies illustrate the negative impacts of long wait times, high costs, and lack of support on migrants’ mental health, stability, and sense of belonging. FECCA argues that a migration system aligned with these reforms will enhance Australia’s appeal as a global migration destination while fostering a more inclusive and resilient society.
