Indian Diaspora Surpasses English Migrants in Australia

By Echo News ZA Editorial Team | April 30, 2026

Australia’s Changing Migration Landscape

For the first time in modern history, India-born residents have become Australia’s largest migrant group, overtaking those born in England. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), as of June 2025, there were 971,020 India-born people living in Australia, representing 5.2% of the national population. This narrowly surpassed the 970,950 England-born residents, marking a significant demographic shift.

Australia’s total overseas-born population reached 8.8 million, accounting for nearly 32% of the country’s 27.6 million residents. This proportion is among the highest in the developed world, echoing levels last seen in the late 19th century.

Demographic Trends and Shifts

The Indian diaspora has grown rapidly over the past decade, driven by skilled migration programs, international education, and family reunification policies. In contrast, the England-born population has steadily declined from over one million in 2013. Other significant migrant groups include China (732,000), New Zealand (638,000), Philippines, Vietnam, South Africa, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Malaysia.

Median age statistics reveal that overseas-born residents are generally older, with a median age of 45 years in 2021, influenced by the COVID-19 pandemic and reduced student migration.

Economic Contributions of Migrants

Migration has long been a cornerstone of Australia’s economic growth. The Indian community contributes significantly across sectors such as healthcare, IT, engineering, and education. Their entrepreneurial presence is also visible in small businesses, retail, and hospitality. These contributions bolster Australia’s workforce diversity and global competitiveness.

However, the surge in migration coincides with Australia’s worst housing shortage in decades. Rising demand has intensified debates about affordability, infrastructure, and urban planning.

Political and Social Debates

Migration remains a political flashpoint. The populist One Nation party has gained traction by campaigning against immigration, citing housing and job insecurity. The Australian Human Rights Commission has warned against rising anti-immigration rhetoric, emphasizing that debates should remain constructive rather than demonizing migrants.

Hugh de Krester, president of the Commission, noted: “Too often this debate is demonising migrants and driving polarisation and racism, and it is wrong.”

Global Context and Diaspora Identity

The Indian diaspora in Australia reflects broader global migration trends. With strong ties to India’s cultural heritage, migrants maintain vibrant communities through festivals, language schools, and religious institutions. This cultural richness enhances Australia’s multicultural identity, fostering cross-cultural exchange and resilience.

For South Africans observing these shifts, parallels can be drawn with diaspora communities in Johannesburg, Durban, and Cape Town, where migration similarly reshapes urban landscapes.

Future Outlook

Australia’s migration policies will continue to balance economic needs, housing supply, and social cohesion. The rise of the Indian-born population underscores the importance of inclusive policies that recognize migrants not only as workers but as integral members of society.

As debates intensify, the challenge lies in ensuring that migration remains a source of strength rather than division.

Source: The Independent via MSN News By: Alisha Rahaman Sarkar

© 2026 Echos News. All rights reserved.

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