Australian town Naracoorte embraces migrants despite housing shortage

The small rural town of Naracoorte, South Australia, with a population of just 6,300, has become an unexpected destination for migrants arriving in Australia. The town's main street now features a diversity of accents, local sports clubs integrate families from various cultural backgrounds, and businesses reflect global journeys.

“

It doesn't matter where you go to now in rural Australia, housing can be an issue. Things like the school, even the local churches … people now attend church on a regular basis and participate in those activities.

New residents have played a crucial role in addressing labor shortages across various industries, establishing new businesses in the town center, and bolstering the ranks of local volunteers. Despite facing challenges with a housing shortfall, the community largely views the ongoing migration as a positive development.

Malcom McEachern, a member of the Naracoorte Lions Club, stated that the town would be significantly worse off without the encouragement of migrants. He acknowledged that housing is a common issue in rural Australia but emphasized the positive impact on local institutions like schools and churches, noting increased regular attendance and participation.

“

After the work day finishes, probably from about 4pm onwards [the energy changes]. The town is actually really thriving because of all the people who have been able to come here.

McEachern further commented on the town's enhanced vibrancy due to the migrant population. He observed a palpable shift in energy after working hours, describing the town as "really thriving" thanks to the newcomers. Afghan migrant Didar Ali, who runs The Daily Market, noted the growing diversity of customers and the encouragement for migrants to launch businesses in Naracoorte, observing that the town's population and business landscape are expanding.

“

When we came here [in 2011], there were fewer migrants in this town, but now the population is growing more. There's more businesses coming to the town as it grows. [People] like to see different food and they're happy to come here.

Beyond the town center, migrants are also contributing to local environmental efforts. Totiria Ngatau, among many Kiribati migrants, volunteers her days off to help remove invasive boneseed plants from the Bool Lagoon area, demonstrating a commitment to the local environment and community engagement.

“

When I first came to Naracoorte, the president of our Kiribati community was approaching me with anything happening around in Naracoorte. I [was] very interested with that becaus