Recent data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) indicate a significant decline in Fijian migration to Australia, with a 28.1 percent drop reported. This decrease comes as a result of changes in labor demand and tightening migration policies in both Australia and New Zealand. Following the pandemic’s severe restrictions on movement, Fiji experienced a worker exodus, losing nearly 20,000 individuals within a year, a stark increase compared to an average of 5,000 annually before COVID-19.
Australia and New Zealand have traditionally been the primary destinations for Fijians, accounting for approximately 90 percent of the country’s emigration. However, with recent statistics showing a reduction in Fijians migrating to Australia—decreasing to 5,960 from the previous year’s peak of 8,360—the trend suggests a temporary nature to the surge in migration seen after borders reopened.
The economists from ANZ, Kishti Sen and Tom Kenny, explained that the ongoing decline in long-term departures, which dropped by 23.1 percent to 7,030, alongside a notable 37.2 percent increase in long-term arrivals back to Fiji, signals a changing landscape for emigration. They anticipate that while long-term work departures may continue to decrease, certain employment programs like the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) program will help maintain a stable outflow of workers.
Moreover, the trend of students migrating for education has also seen a downturn. However, the economists are optimistic, predicting that returning students will contribute positively to Fiji’s long-term population growth starting in 2025. They believe this will ultimately lead to increased domestic consumption, housing growth, and infrastructure investment, thereby providing a necessary workforce for enhanced economic output in the future.
In summary, while the current decline in Fijian migration to Australia may appear concerning, it could pave the way for a replenishment of Fiji’s population in the coming years, fostering economic development and enhanced opportunities for those returning home. This represents a hopeful turn as Fiji embarks on a path of gradual recovery and growth post-pandemic.
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