After World War II, Australia’s economy was falling due to lack of employment. This was when Australia decided to let anybody apply for a visa from any country.

The Australian Government, through the Department of Immigration pl ays an important role in the development of immigration policy as well as the provision of services for new settlers.

Developing Policy

The government develops Australia’s immigration policy and sets the criteria and standards that need to be met to those who wish to come to Australia. There are penalties that apply to those who breach Australia’s immigration laws.

Enforcing Australia’s migration policy involves:

• Ensuring visitors to Australia do not overstay their visas.
• Implementing measures to discourage people smuggling
• Deporting foreign nationals who arrive without relevant documents

The roll of non-government organizations is to perform a number of functions, including defending human rights and providing support for newly settled migrants.

These groups encourage governments to provide adequate protection for asylum seekers and to abide by international conventions for the treatment of refugees and the protection of human rights.

Non-Government organizations such as Refugee Council of Australia provide protection and legal advice to refugees and asylum seekers. These groups often speak on behalf of refugee communities in order to ensure their rights are protected and their point of view has been heard.

Cultural and linguistic diversity has been a significant strength for the nation and continues to be a valuable resource for the country as a whole. Over 200 languages are spoken across the country as a whole. Over 200 languages are spoken and the rich mix of cultures, traditions, languages and beliefs makes Australia stand out above other countries. Some people see Australia’s diversity as a threat and say that immigration is a threat to Australia’s unique national identity and culture.

The economic benefits and costs of migration have also been an ongoing source of debate in Australia. Some groups argue that immigration is a drain on the Australia’s economy and say that it is taking away jobs from Australians and others say that migration has a positive impact on the economy.

Australia’s migration policies have an important impact upon our relationships with our immediate neighbours as well as other nations from around the world. Australia’s abandonment of the “White Australian Policy” has created significant political and economic benefits for Australia.

The term social justice means protecting human rights and ensuring that international law is adhered too. Social justice also is about ensuring fairness and rectifying social wrongs. One of the key social wrongs facing Australia recently has been the treatment of refugees and asylum seekers.

A number of Non-Government and Government organizations have criticized Australia for its policies and practices regarding asylum seekers.