China now the biggest source of migrants to Australia

Recent figures released by the Australian government show that China is now the main source of immigrants to Australia, eclisping the big two traditional nations of the UK and New Zealand. Some of the changes reflect the world economic situation. UK migrants usually come through the skilled migration progarmme which has been scaled back somewhat in the last 18 months.

All New Zealanders are actually entitled to live in Australia without the need to formally migrate but commentators suggest that the lack of new jobs in Australia at the moment makes such a move less attractive for our trans-Tasman friends.

In contrast much of the Chinese immigration to Australia is based on family reunion and so has not been affected by the economy.

Despite the cut in skilled migration recently, Australia is still undergoing a significant growth in population driven by migration and an increased birthrate. Recently the population hit 22 million.

All visitors to Australia (apart from New Zealanders) require a visa. Find out more details on the Australian tourist visa here.