Migration policy can’t be separated from population

August 17, 2026

Alan Gamlen and Peter McDonald make important points in Six things Tony Burke should say about immigration, particularly about managing temporary migration, clearer visa pathways and avoiding excessive focus on a single net overseas migration number.

However, there is a seventh – can we build enough houses, schools, hospitals, transport and infrastructure for the population we’re planning for?

I don’t think Australians are necessarily opposed to migration. Most recognise its economic and social benefits, but people are concerned when population growth outpaces governments’ capacity to provide housing and services.

The authors are right that net overseas migration is an outcome, not a simple policy lever, but governments shouldn’t simply observe population growth after the event. Decisions on temporary visas, permanent migration and international education all influence Australia’s population.

Tony Burke needs to explain not just how migration will be managed, but what population Australia is planning for and how it will be supported.

Migration policy has to be coordinated with housing, infrastructure and planning and the answer isn’t to shut the door or obsess over an annual number, but to build a migration system Australians can trust, one that supports the economy while ensuring housing and services keep pace.