Population

Effects of temporary migration

This report aims to better understand the role that migrants, specifically temporary migrants, play in Australia’s economy.

This report examines the facts around temporary migration, its importance to business and the economic benefits it delivers to Australians.

While less often discussed than permanent migration, it is a significant and important part of Australia’s migration system. 

Contrary to some concerns, our analysis shows that recent waves of migrants have not had an adverse impact on the wages or jobs of local workers.

CEDA migration report

Temporary migration is a natural offshoot of globalisation. It is necessary to keep Australia competitive and innovative. This report seeks to contribute to a broader understanding of the scale and scope of temporary migration and its contribution to Australia’s economy and society. The report explores three areas:

  • The evolution of temporary migration in Australia, including the key facts and figures of various streams of migrants, and how they contribute to population growth.
  • The impact on the labour market, with new economic research undertaken by CEDA highlighting that contrary to some concerns, recent waves of migrants have not had an adverse impact on the wages or jobs of Australian born workers.
  • Temporary skilled migration – a program that has become the focus of community concerns around jobs and wages, including that migrants displace Australian workers and undermine pay and conditions.

Effects of temporary migration also provides key recommendations on how the Federal Government could enhance its approach to temporary migration policy ensuring the stability of the program in the years to come.