Andrew Bragg, a Liberal senator, has defended his proposal to limit annual net overseas migration (Nom) to 180,000, despite his party's reluctance to endorse the target publicly. Speaking at the National Press Club on Wednesday, Bragg argued that reducing migration to this level would help alleviate a housing shortfall, which he described as a mismatch between the number of dwellings and the population size. He cited historical precedents, such as the sharp decline in Nom during 2009–10, when figures dropped from 300,000 to 175,000 within 18 months, as evidence that such a reduction is feasible. Bragg emphasized the importance of aligning migration with industry needs, suggesting that modest cuts to international student numbers, working holidaymakers, and unskilled labor could help achieve this goal. He also called for stricter scrutiny of migration standards to maintain public confidence. The current Nom figure, which spiked after the pandemic, has begun to stabilize, returning to more normal levels. Under the Albanese government’s projections, Nom is expected to decrease further, reaching 295,000 in the previous financial year, 245,000 in 2026–27, and 225,000 in 2027–28. Bragg acknowledged that the opposition has not finalized its complete migration policy but stressed the necessity of advancing the discussion toward more detailed strategies. He noted that understanding the relationship between housing and migration requires deeper engagement from political leaders, urging them to articulate specific goals for future policy. While Bragg’s stance has drawn attention, it has not gained widespread support among his Liberal colleagues. Shadow Treasurer Tim Wilson dismissed the proposed target as premature, stating that the party has not yet decided on a definitive position ahead of the next election. Similarly, Shadow Education Minister Julian Leeser endorsed the idea of lowering migration but emphasized the need to balance it with international education. Meanwhile, Nationals Leader Matt Canavan ruled out any visa restrictions that might affect agricultural workers or those in rural regions. One Nation, another minor party, has proposed capping visas at 130,000 annually but has offered little clarity on which sectors or regions would be affected. Clare O’Neil, the housing minister, acknowledged that migration plays a role in addressing housing challenges but cautioned against overstating its impact. She highlighted the complexity of the issue, noting that multiple factors contribute to housing shortages. Bragg’s speech also included broader policy suggestions, such as simplifying the National Construction Code and implementing a flatter tax structure for high earners. He reflected on his time in the Morrison government, expressing regret for not preventing what he described as the government’s “madness.” Bragg positioned himself as a proponent of a new form of liberalism that avoids both socialism and conservatism. In parallel developments, UK politics saw continued debate over housing policy. Shadow Housing Secretary James Cleverly claimed there is “zero chance” the Labour Party will fulfill its pledge to build 1.5 million new homes during its term, attributing the failure to poor planning and regulatory hurdles. Cleverly criticized Labour for failing to reduce taxes, streamline regulations, or lower operational costs, arguing these measures are essential for boosting construction. Despite these claims, Housing Minister Matthew Pennycook reiterated the government’s commitment to the housing target, insisting that the plan remains valid and important. Meanwhile, new rules requiring councils to grant a “default yes” to housing proposals near transport hubs, even on green belt land, were introduced, though officials maintained that local input would still play a role in decision-making. The ongoing discourse reflects deepening tensions between different political factions over how best to address housing crises. In the UK, concerns over rising business costs, particularly affecting pubs and other small businesses, have intensified. Cleverly blamed Labour’s policies, including increased minimum wages and employer national insurance contributions, for driving up expenses and contributing to closures. These discussions underscore the complex interplay between economic policy, urban development, and social welfare, highlighting the challenges faced by policymakers in balancing competing priorities.
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