Migration has been a key driver of Victoria’s economic growth and cultural diversity. Migrants contribute to our economy, enrich our communities, and strengthen our state’s global connections. I am committed to creating a migration system that not only attracts skilled workers but also provides the necessary support for migrants to thrive. Victoria must remain a state that welcomes newcomers and helps them succeed.
Goals
- Attract 20,000 skilled migrants to Victoria over the next five years, focusing on industries that are experiencing labour shortages, such as healthcare, technology, and education. This will involve working with both state and federal governments to create streamlined pathways for skilled workers to settle in Victoria.
- Increase Migrant Integration Success Rates: Aim for a 100% success rate in migrant integration within five years by expanding state-funded language training, job placement programs, and social support services. This comprehensive approach will ensure that migrants acquire the necessary skills and resources to fully integrate into Victorian society.
- Reduce Unemployment Among Migrant Communities: Work towards eliminating unemployment among migrant communities within five years. This will involve implementing targeted initiatives designed to help migrants find employment that aligns with their skills and qualifications. We will collaborate with employers to dismantle barriers to employment, ensuring that migrants have access to fair job opportunities and a supportive work environment.
- Promote cultural exchange and understanding by increasing funding for multicultural events, festivals, and community organisations by 50% over the next five years. This will help foster stronger relationships between migrant and host communities, reducing xenophobia and promoting social cohesion.
Initiatives
- Skilled Migration Pathway Program: Working with industries experiencing labour shortages to create a fast-track pathway for skilled migrants to settle in Victoria. This program will involve a streamlined visa process, support for migrant workers, and incentives for industries to hire skilled migrants.
- Migrant Job Placement Services: Expanding state-funded job placement programs that help migrants find employment that matches their skills and qualifications. This will involve working with employers to break down barriers to employment, providing job training programs, and offering financial incentives for companies that hire migrants.
- Migrant Language Training: Increasing access to state-funded language training programs for migrants, to provide free language training to 100,000 migrants over the next five years. These programs will focus on English language proficiency and will be tailored to the specific needs of different migrant communities.
- Cultural Exchange Initiatives: Supporting a broad array of multicultural festivals, public forums, and events across Victoria that celebrate the state’s rich cultural diversity. These events will serve as platforms for cultural exchange, fostering greater understanding and solidarity between different communities.
“Migration has always been the backbone of Victoria’s prosperity, and I will ensure that our state continues to welcome newcomers with open arms.” – Bashir Fayaq.
