Big business fears 'war for talent' as politicians clash over immigration

Powerful Australian business and mining organizations are pushing back against political proposals to reduce migration. They warn that cutting the influx of workers could jeopardize the delivery of major projects and hinder economic growth.

“

We are in a global war for talent, and we need to be as responsible but as welcoming as possible.

The government is considering migration cuts, including offshore processing for skilled migrants' families. Meanwhile, opposition figures have suggested modest reductions targeting backpackers and international students. These proposals have sparked debate, with some cabinet colleagues reportedly not consulted on certain plans.

Industry leaders express grave concern over potential changes that could deter workers from coming to Australia. Innes Willox, CEO of the Australian Industry Group, emphasized that Australia is engaged in a "global war for talent" and must remain welcoming. He highlighted the critical role of skilled migrants in projects like the Queensland Olympics build, stressing the need for an immigration system with "integrity and value."

“

The important thing for us is that we don't go backwards. It would make a difficult situation even harder to manage.

Similarly, Tania Constable, head of the Minerals Council, stated that the mining sector requires approximately 40,000 new migrant workers over the next three years to support existing and approved projects. She acknowledged the goal of meeting Australians' needs for services and housing but underscored that migrant workers are indispensable for maintaining economic momentum, particularly given current widespread labor shortages. The Chamber of Minerals and Energy WA echoed these concerns, noting the mining sector's heightened reliance on migrant workers in Western Australia.

“

Across the board, we have a shortage. We need those workers, and we need them pretty quickly.