One Nation has reignited debate on immigration by calling for Australia to return to the migration levels seen during the COVID-19 pandemic, when strict border closures effectively halted arrivals. The party argues that sharply reducing net migration would ease pressure on housing, infrastructure, and wages. Critics warn that such a policy would cripple industries reliant on foreign workers and undermine economic growth.
During the pandemic, net overseas migration fell to historically low levels, even turning negative in some periods. One Nation's proposal would aim to replicate that near-zero intake. The party has long advocated for stricter immigration controls, linking high migration to rising house prices and strained public services.
The proposal comes as Australia recovers from labor shortages in sectors like hospitality, healthcare, and agriculture. Businesses say they already struggle to fill positions, and a return to COVID-level migration could worsen the problem. Economists point out that migration also boosts demand and tax revenue.
The plan has no current legislative path, but it reflects growing public concern about housing affordability and population growth. The government faces pressure from both sides: businesses wanting more workers, and some voters worried about cost-of-living pressures.
What happens next depends on whether One Nation can build broader political support. The proposal is likely to feature in election campaigns, forcing major parties to clarify their own migration targets.