Race Commissioner says anti-migration rhetoric distracts from real causes of inequality

Australia's Race Discrimination Commissioner, Giridharan Sivaraman, has warned that inaccurate and dehumanising rhetoric over migration risks fanning the flames of racism, and distracts from the real causes of inequality.

The Commissioner is concerned about the tone of recent public debate – across mainstream and social media – regarding Australia's migration intake. It includes the misreporting of migration numbers and overstating its impact on domestic issues such as housing. Commissioner Sivaraman said some of the debate, particularly on social media, has been explicitly racist.

‘Many Australians are doing it tough. Economic inequality, housing stress, and job insecurity are real and urgent challenges, including for people from migrant backgrounds. We need genuine solutions to these challenges – not dangerous, exploitative anti-migrant rhetoric.

‘Migration has brought and continues to bring economic growth, skills, ideas, and energy to Australia. It enriches communities, boosts productivity, supports regional growth, and helps build a more inclusive and globally connected society. Half of us have a parent born overseas.

‘We know many people, particularly from migrant and multicultural communities, are feeling anxious and fearful about the ongoing climate we're in,' Commissioner Sivaraman said.

‘There are a range of views on migration policy, and it's important that these are discussed respectfully. But when public messaging singles out communities or uses language that dehumanises, it risks undermining the values that bind us.'

‘Racism towards migrants is a symptom of flaws in our systems and institutions that can only be truly rectified by governments adopting and funding the National Anti-Racism Framework - which I delivered to Federal Parliament last November. It outlines 63 recommendations for a whole-of-society approach to tackling racism across institutions, workplaces, and communities.'

Commissioner Sivaraman also affirmed the right to peaceful protest, ahead of nationwide anti-migration rallies this weekend, but urged this right be exercised responsibly.

‘Freedom of assembly is a cornerstone of our democracy. But it must never come at the cost of vilification or hate,' he said.

Commissioner Sivaraman reiterated his call for the Government to adopt the Framework during his recent National Press Club address.

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