Australia welcomes hundreds of thousands of new migrants every year. However, for many, the dream of a new life Down Under is overshadowed by the soaring challenges posed by skyrocketing property prices and living costs, according to a recent survey by Immigration2Australia.
In a nation where 82% of Australians believe housing and rental prices stand as significant deterrents for new arrivals, the struggles faced by those seeking a fresh start are undeniable. South Australians and Queenslanders, in particular, express heightened concerns, with 89% and 85%, respectively, viewing the record-high home costs as a substantial barrier for immigrants.
The survey, conducted on a nationally representative panel of 1012 Australians, sheds light on the multifaceted challenges faced by newcomers. Respondents, when presented with 15 potential obstacles, identified property and rental prices as the top concerns, followed closely by the sheer expense of living, especially for those aged 35-54, where 80% expressed worry.
The findings coincide with near-record levels of international immigration, as evidenced by a 73% increase to 737,000 migrant arrivals in the 2022-23 financial year. The government’s response, allocating 190,000 places in the 2023-24 permanent migration program, aims to address persistent skill shortages identified in 36% of occupations assessed in Australia last year.
For South Australians and Queenslanders, witnessing their respective property markets experience record-high price hikes amplifies concerns for newcomers. Adelaide, with a 60% rise in house medians between September 2019 and September 2023, and Brisbane, reaching record highs in house medians and unit rents, contribute to a palpable housing crisis.
Alon Rajic, Founder and Managing Director of Immigration2Australia, acknowledges the strain on Australians, emphasising the varied concerns across states and age groups. While property prices weigh heavily on South Australians and Queenslanders, Victorians echo similar concerns alongside worries about the cost of living.
The housing and rental crisis is notably felt by over-55s, with 88% expressing concern, while those aged 35-54 emphasise the pressing issue of the cost of living. As living costs surge, middle-aged Australians, possibly with school-aged dependents, perceive the financial burden as a significant challenge for newcomers.
Moreover, older Australians, aged over 55, show apprehension about the isolated location and distance from Europe and the US, with 63% considering it a top-five negative for migrants. Distance between destinations, both locally and internationally, remains a notable concern for older age groups.
Interestingly, younger demographics, aged 18-34, express a unique worry about Australia falling behind the rest of the world in terms of innovation and product availability. This perception, held by 30% of respondents in this age group, contrasts with the views of those aged 35-54 and over 55.
In conclusion, the Australian dream for newcomers is juxtaposed with the stark realities of rising property prices, living costs, and concerns about the country’s global standing. As the government addresses skill shortages through increased migration, it remains to be seen how these challenges will shape the experiences of those seeking a new life in the Land Down Under.
