The Australian Coalition opposition is considering a plan to reduce net overseas migration to between 150,000 and 200,000 per year, according to a leaked internal document. The target represents a significant cut from the current level of 306,000 in 2024-2025, and would be higher than One Nation’s 130,000 cap or the Howard-era target of 100,000.
The document, circulated to senior Coalition MPs, outlines key policies for the party’s election platform as it rebuilds from its 2025 loss. Leader Angus Taylor has tasked policy groups with seven priority areas, including migration, with a specific question: how to reduce net overseas migration to 150,000-200,000 while minimising economic impacts and strengthening social cohesion.
A spokesperson for Taylor did not dispute the target, stating: “We are considering the full range of options because migration must be at a level Australia can absorb, with enough homes, services and social cohesion to support it.” Taylor has previously unveiled an immigration policy designed to favour migrants from liberal democracies, raising concerns about alienating Chinese Australian voters.
The document also reveals plans to lift productivity by 0.5-0.7% annually, improve housing affordability within two years, and overhaul the education and tax system. The Coalition aims to have its full platform ready by February 2027, ahead of the next scheduled federal election.
