Recent anti-immigration protests in Australian cities reflect concerns about the high levels of annual immigration and its perceived impact on the Australian way of life, identity, and culture. Some participants express genuine unease about the changing nature of society and the shifting population demographics, particularly in major urban centres.
However, are these societal changes solely the result of immigration? Why does the government maintain high immigration levels? Common justifications include the need to fill skill shortages and attract global talent—an increasingly competitive pursuit worldwide.
But this raises further questions. Why are most immigrants funnelled into already overcrowded major cities? Is the government doing enough to develop infrastructure that links major cities with regional centres to relieve urban pressure?
In New South Wales, at least, the answer appears to be no. Billions are being invested in expanding transport infrastructure within Sydney, such as the $25 billion Parramatta to Sydney Metro. Meanwhile, regional projects—like the proposed reactivation of the rail link from Armidale to Queensland—remain ignored, despite repeated community calls and a comparatively modest $1 billion required investment for 210kms.
This reflects a pattern of regional neglect by state governments that disproportionately focus on metropolitan areas. Soaring housing prices and the rising cost of living in major cities are pushing people to move to regional areas that often lack adequate rail connectivity and rely heavily on air or road transport.
At the root of this imbalance is a structural flaw in our political system. Decision-making is heavily influenced by powerful lobby groups, and regional electorates—often non-marginal—receive less political attention both during and after elections.
Immigrants, like many working or unemployed Australians, have become pawns in a much larger economic and political game. The real issue lies in the unjust and unequal distribution of resources, rising living costs, and an infrastructure strategy that overlooks regional needs.
Improved connectivity between regional areas and major cities is essential for building a coherent and united society. The current discontent stems not from immigration itself, but from successive governments failing to act in the interests of all Australians—urban and regional alike.
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Yes the regions do suffer from poor connectivity, and poor Infrastructure. Regional people will not get these issues fixed without a growing population.
Poor planning is a problem yes – I went up to a bull sale at Bingara the other week – the road thru north Tamworth is only single lane with the option to turn right in a right hand turning lane or the option to pull off and turn into a local street for each specific house.
There was no room to make the main drag double lanes which I see as poor planning by a past Tamworth regional council. Sadly these issues only become apparent many years after the concilors / planning people within concil who make the decision have likely moved on.
Immigrants are not the problem, this country was built by immigrants. What is the problem is wreckless out of control mass immigration being used to prop up a failing economy caused by mismanagement by a socialist government.
To blame the individual immigrants is reckless & just plain stupid. Who wouldn’t want to come to Australia for a chance at a better life?
The issue is the current government allowing a reported 1500 immigrants every single day.
1500 extra people every day which exacerbates an already crippling housing crisis, adds to the health care burden, & adds pressure to already strained infrastructure.
Ed should be allowing immigration, but at a much lower level, & allowing people who will add value to our society, like healthcare workers & first responders. Not dog groomers & nannies!