Anti-Immigration vs. Scapegoating Immigrants for the Failures of the State

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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