But did we see them passing by

The Age - 29 August 2002

Dear Sir/Madam

It is surprising that The Age editorial (But did we see them passing by, 28 August 2002) suggests returning to a time when our migration intake was dominated by low skilled migrants, as research has clearly shown that Australia's increased focus on skilled migration delivers major benefits.

It is no coincidence that many economic commentators in the USA are calling for greater emphasis on skilled migration - in fact, a program just like Australia operates. Recent US research strongly indicates that low skilled migration increases income inequality and poverty, particularly for existing low skilled residents.

The Government has introduced major policy changes to enable successful overseas students and skilled temporary residents to convert to permanent residence without leaving Australia. This means that a significant proportion of those who initially enter on a long-term temporary basis (as identified in the ABS data) stay permanently.

Stewart Foster
Director, Public Affairs
Dept of Immigration and Multicultural and Indigenous Affairs