Australian Coalition Revises Migration Policy Plans

The Coalition, led by Peter Dutton, has retracted its commitment to a specific net migration target of 160,000, which would have significantly reduced migration levels. Recent surveys indicate that 64% of voters support lowering Australia's immigration intake, prompting the Coalition to adjust its goals. Dutton has reaffirmed plans to decrease permanent migration from 185,000 to 140,000 annually for two years, but he hesitates to commit to net migration figures, citing economic conditions that may influence future policies. Opposition figures, including Bill Shorten, criticize Dutton for his indecisiveness and perceived retreat from earlier promises. The government anticipates net migration to drop to 260,000 in 2024-25, down from a recent high of 510,000, but the Coalition's migration strategy remains unclear. Dutton's shifting stance on migration highlights the ongoing political tensions regarding Australia's immigration policy.