Australia’s Net Migration Falls to 301,000, Lowest Since 2022

Australia’s net overseas migration fell to 301,000 in 2025, down from 306,000 in 2024, according to new Australian Bureau of Statistics data released June 19. The figure is the lowest since the post-pandemic border reopening in 2022, when migration peaked at 556,000. Despite the decline, the number remains well above the government’s target of 225,000 annually, intensifying political pressure on Labor to cut migration further.

What the Numbers Show

Net migration of 301,000 represents a small drop from the previous year but remains elevated by historical standards. Australia’s population grew 1.5% to 27.8 million in the 12 months to June 2026. Natural increase from births minus deaths accounted for 111,500 of that growth. The decline contradicts claims by One Nation leader Pauline Hanson, who falsely stated daily migration exceeded 1,375 people. Actual daily net migration averaged 1,122 over the past three years.

Labor’s Target Under Fire

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has committed to reducing net migration to 225,000 people per year, calling it the “right number.” Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke stated the government is “bringing migration down with a sensible, measured approach.” However, Shadow Immigration Minister Jonno Duniam noted that net migration has remained above 300,000 for 14 consecutive quarters. The Coalition and One Nation argue current levels remain unsustainable, putting Labor in a difficult political position ahead of elections.

The Housing and Economy Link

Migration has become central to Australia’s political debate, with critics linking high immigration to housing affordability pressures. However, economists remain divided on the scale of that impact. Matt Grudnoff, senior economist at the Australia Institute, told media that “data shows that migrants are not having an impact on housing affordability issues” and generally have “a positive impact” on the economy. Universities are also feeling pressure, with Chinese student visa applications down almost 30 percent in April compared to the same period last year, citing the heated migration debate.

Political Pressure Mounts

One Nation’s rise in the polls has forced Labor to defend its migration policy. The government’s permanent migration program is capped at 185,000 places for 2026-27, with 71 percent targeted at skills shortages. Despite these restrictions, the political debate continues to intensify, with One Nation using migration as a central campaign issue. The government faces competing demands to cut migration while maintaining skilled worker supply for the economy.

Final Thoughts

Australia’s migration decline shows policy is working, but remains above government targets. The political battle over immigration will likely intensify as One Nation gains traction and Labor defends its approach.

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