A former Australian finance minister and OECD secretary-general has cautioned against implementing migration caps as a response to public concerns over rising living costs, arguing that such policies could be counterproductive. Research cited in the discussion suggests that migrants contribute positively to employment levels, reinforcing the need for targeted solutions rather than broad restrictions. The call comes as mainstream political parties face pressure to address economic anxieties, with the former minister advocating for productivity-driven measures like improved housing supply, wage growth, and reduced energy prices. The debate highlights a clash between populist appeals and evidence-based economic strategies in shaping policy responses.
Former minister and OECD head urges Australia not to adopt migration caps, with research showing migrants boost employmentGet our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcastAustralia’s mainstream political parties are being warned not to adopt populist policies such as migration caps to address voters’ grievances over the cost of living.Instead, Australia’s longest-serving finance minister, Mathias Cormann, is urging politicians to deliver housing, real wage growth and lower energy costs by boosting productivity. Continue reading...
