By Mirwais Haidari
Australia is a country shaped by migration. People have come from different parts of the world, bringing their skills, ideas, cultures and experiences.
Many have built businesses, worked in essential jobs, and helped their communities grow. But immigration also raises important questions about public safety, responsibility and fairness. In my view, Australia should take all these issues seriously without treating migrants as a problem or ignoring the contributions they make.
As an Afghan journalist rebuilding my career in Australia, I understand that starting again in a new country is not always easy. People may have years of experience and professional knowledge, but they still need to learn a new system, improve their English or find opportunities in their chosen field.
I believe Australia can do more to recognise these skills and help people use them. This would benefit not only migrants but also the wider community.
Migrants have helped build Australia
Australia’s history shows that people from different backgrounds have contributed to the country in many ways. The Australian Parliament’s report on migration and nation-building discusses the economic, social and cultural role of migration in Australia.
One example is the cameleers who helped transport goods across remote parts of the country. According to the National Museum of Australia, cameleers arrived from Afghanistan, Baluchistan and other regions during the 19th and early 20th Centuries. Their work helped connect isolated communities and support transport and trade.
Today migrants continue to contribute through businesses, education, health services, science, the arts and community organisations. Some create jobs, while others share professional knowledge or support people in their neighbourhoods.
These contributions deserve recognition. Australia should not look only at where people come from, but also at what they can contribute and how they can participate in society.
Public safety must come first
Recognising migrants’ contributions does not mean ignoring security concerns. Every person should respect Australian law and the rights of others. Violence and extremism can cause serious harm, and authorities have a responsibility to take credible threats seriously.
The Australian Department of Home Affairs’ character requirements explain some of the rules that apply to visa applicants and holders. Where there is evidence of a serious risk, authorities should investigate and take appropriate action within the law. People who commit serious offences should be held accountable through fair legal processes. In certain circumstances, visa cancellation or removal may also be possible under the law.
However, security decisions should be based on evidence and individual behaviour, not assumptions about someone’s religion, nationality or ethnic background. One person’s actions should not make an entire community responsible.
Fairness matters too
The Australian Human Rights Commission explains racial discrimination and the protections available under Australian law. These protections matter because people should not face unfair treatment simply because of where they were born or what community they belong to.
Australia should also focus more on preventing harm before it happens. Authorities, community organisations and local communities can work together to identify concerns and respond to risks.
Public discussion should be responsible, too. Politicians and the media should avoid language that unfairly blames whole communities, especially when discussing serious crimes.
Immigration policy should be judged by its results. Is the public being protected? Are laws being applied fairly? Are migrants able to use their skills and experience?
These are more useful questions than arguments based only on fear or political slogans.
Building a stronger future
Australia does not have to choose between security and compassion. It can protect the public, hold individuals responsible for their actions, and give people from different backgrounds a fair chance to contribute.
As someone building a new professional future in Australia, I believe migrants should be recognised not only for the challenges they face but also for the knowledge, experience and determination they bring. A strong society needs both safety and opportunity.
The real challenge is to make sure that immigration policies protect people while allowing individuals to participate and contribute. Australia will be stronger when it takes security seriously, treats people fairly and recognises that a person’s background does not define their character.
Featured image: The Opera House exemplifies the role of public spaces in Australian city life. Photo: Mirwais Haidari
