Social Services Minister Amanda Rishworth and Nationals senator Bridget McKenzie recently clashed over migration policy during a panel discussion on Nine’s Today program. McKenzie expressed concern over the impact of Labor’s policies on the housing market, claiming that house prices and rent have increased due to high levels of migration. Rishworth, on the other hand, accused McKenzie of being misleading and pointed out that the current migration settings were established by the previous government, not the current one.
In response to Queensland Labor Premier Steven Miles endorsing Opposition Leader Peter Dutton’s calls for cuts to Australia’s migration intake, McKenzie argued that Labor’s policies have not only led to an increase in migrants but have also kept interest rates high due to a lack of control over inflation. She characterized the situation as the great Australian dream of owning a home turning into a nightmare. Rishworth challenged McKenzie’s assertions, emphasizing that the government has been addressing the issues left behind by the previous administration and that there has been a reduction in international student numbers.
McKenzie questioned Rishworth about whether the government would support cutting international student numbers and highlighted a 35% decrease in such students. Rishworth defended the government’s actions, stating that they have been working to fix the problems caused by the previous government and projecting a significant decrease in migration in the upcoming financial year. She called out McKenzie for using rhetoric without providing a concrete plan or facts to support her claims, emphasizing the importance of being truthful and transparent when discussing migration policy.
The exchange between Rishworth and McKenzie highlighted the ongoing debate over migration policy in Australia, with differing perspectives on the impact of migration on housing affordability and the economy. McKenzie’s concerns about the strain on the housing market and inflation due to high levels of migration were met with skepticism by Rishworth, who argued that the current government is taking steps to address these issues. The discussion also touched on the role of international students in the migration debate and the government’s efforts to manage their numbers effectively.
Overall, the clash between Rishworth and McKenzie underscored the complexity of migration policy and the divergent viewpoints within the Australian political landscape. While McKenzie raised valid concerns about the challenges posed by high migration levels, Rishworth emphasized the need for a balanced and evidence-based approach to managing migration. As the debate continues, it is clear that finding solutions to address the housing market, inflation, and international student numbers will require careful consideration and collaboration between different stakeholders in government.
