Expert Testimony Details Infrastructure Costs of Immigration in High-Wage Regions
What happened
An expert provided testimony regarding infrastructure cost estimates for immigration programs in high-wage regions, including Sydney and Melbourne. The expert noted that Treasury estimates the lifetime fiscal dividend from immigrants at $41,000 per person. However, infrastructure cost estimates vary widely, ranging from $40,000 to $70,000 per immigrant according to Treasury, while University of Queensland's Jane O'Sullivan argued the requirement was no less than $100,000 per immigrant.
From onlineopinion.com.au
Why it matters
The testimony suggested that productivity challenges exist, noting that many immigrants work below their qualifications. Furthermore, the expert noted that the permanent skilled program was less skilled than advertised, with only 46% of applicants being primary applicants.
From onlineopinion.com.au
Who's involved
- SydneyHigh-wage region discussed in the context of immigration program costs.
- MelbourneHigh-wage region discussed in the context of immigration program costs.
- New South WalesState containing Sydney, a high-wage region discussed in the testimony.
Who could feel it
Possible knock-on effectsThese are possibilities Brind reasoned out, not predictions, and not advice. Most are not stated in any report.
- New South WalesSpeculative
The state might see changes in labor supply and housing demand based on immigration policy outcomes.