The number of new permanent immigrants is expected to drop to between 16 and one hundred and seventy thousand in 2017-2018, down from the previous Labour government`s target of one hundred and ninety thousand, according to Australians.
Domestic Affairs Secretary Peter Darden confirmed yesterday that the number of new permanent immigrants will decline this year as the visa approval process "tightens" in 2015. Driven by Darden, the "target" of one hundred and ninety thousand has become a "ceiling", with the government slowing down the visa approval process and scrutinizing visa applications more rigorously.
Prime Minister Turnbull denied this week that he had discussed a reduction in the number of permanent immigrants with his cabinet last year, but told Melbourne radio 3AW: "the long-term limit for permanent immigration is one hundred and ninety thousand, and we were below that limit last year," he told Melbourne Radio 3AW. This year is also expected to be below that limit, and we will evaluate it every year. "
"the fact is, the number of new permanent immigrants is going to decline anyway," Dutton said yesterday on 2GB radio. "I remember that the number of new permanent immigrants fell by about 7000 last year, and obviously not yet until the end of this fiscal year, but my expectation is, This number will fall. "
Darden also explained to 2GB radio the composition of the new permanent immigration visa. "at least in the last few days," 2/3 were skilled immigrant visas, "because they pay taxes and contribute to making our economy stronger"; another 1/3 are spouse visas.
The Department of Home Affairs expects the number of new permanent immigrants to be cut to one hundred and sixty thousand this year, the lowest level since 2007-08.
Source: < Australians
