In the wake of recent anti-immigration rallies and concerns regarding the safety and well-being of Indian migrants, Australia has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting its Indian diaspora. Australian High Commissioner to India Philip Green has assured India that Australia is dedicated to the safety of Indian migrants and will effectively address any racial incidents that may occur.
Green emphasized Australia's multiculturalism, highlighting that over one million people of Indian origin reside in the country. He pointed out that more than half of Australia's population consists of migrants or their children, reinforcing the nation's identity as a multicultural society. Green stated that Australia is among the safest places in the world for anyone, and the presence of over a million people of Indian origin demonstrates this. He acknowledged that occasional incidents may happen, as they do anywhere in the world, but assured that Australian authorities will address them effectively.
The Australian government has strongly condemned campaigns against the migration of Indians, asserting that "brand of far-right activism grounded in racism and ethnocentrism" has no place in the country. Minister for Multicultural Affairs Anne Aly stated that multiculturalism is an integral and valued part of Australia's national identity. The government has expressed its support for all Australians, regardless of their heritage, and has vowed to stand against those who seek to divide and intimidate migrant communities.
Recent anti-immigration protests across Australia, including rallies organized by far-right groups, have sparked fear and concern among Indian-origin residents. These protests, sometimes featuring hateful rhetoric and targeting individuals based on their ethnicity, have been widely condemned.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has also publicly urged Senator Jacinta Nampijinpa Price to apologize for her remarks concerning Indian migrants. Price's comments, suggesting that an unsustainable number of Indians were migrating to Australia to vote for the Labor Party, have been criticized as untrue and harmful to the Australian-Indian community.
The Australian government recognizes the significant contributions of the Indian diaspora to the country's economy and society. Indians are Australia's second-largest migrant group, with approximately 845,800 Indian-born residents living in Australia as of June 2023. The Indian-Australian community is seen as enhancing the bilateral relationship between Australia and India, with a majority of Australians recognizing their positive impact.
Australia and India share a complementary relationship in trade, with Australia being a source of critical minerals needed for India's future growth. The two countries are engaged in discussions to deepen their trade ties, with ongoing negotiations to finalize the next phase of their economic partnership.
While occasional incidents may occur, Australia remains committed to providing a safe and welcoming environment for Indian migrants. The Australian government has made it clear that there is no place in their society for religious or ethnic discrimination. The government is actively working to address concerns and ensure that all Australians, including those of Indian origin, feel safe and valued in their communities.