Australia wants temporary visa holders back ‘as soon as possible’ : Immigration Minister Alex Hawke

Australia's newly-appointed Immigration Minister Alex Hawke says the government is planning to allow migrants and visitors back into the country as soon as possible. In an interview with SBS News, Mr Hawke discussed the impacts of COVID-19 on migration and post-pandemic Australia.

Source: Getty Images

Highlights

• Due to border closures under the COVID-19 pandemic, Australia's net migration has dropped to negative levels not seen since World War Two.
• Australia has seen a decrease in international student arrivals - by 99 per cent since 2020, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics.
• The immigration minister says Australia's ability to effectively manage and contain COVID-19 outbreaks has made the country more attractive to migrants.
• The minister indicated international students and tourists would be given priority once international borders open.

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