Australia is a nation defined by migration, built upon the foundation of the world’s oldest continuing culture. Here, we cherish the rich diversity of our multicultural identity — one that is underpinned by a commitment to pluralism and the inalienable right to belong. This is not something we take for granted.
Like most Australians, I was deeply dismayed to witness several anti-immigration protests around the world earlier this year. It was particularly distressing to see similar protests emerge in Australia in August. You may have heard some of the hateful and hurtful language expressed at these rallies, including remarks that singled out Indian Australians.
It’s important to note, however, that these protests did not draw large crowds in Australia. The divisive views of this small minority do not reflect the stance of the Australian Government — nor the beliefs of the overwhelming majority of Australians. In fact, a study by the Scanlon Foundation found that 83% of
Australians believe multiculturalism is good for the country.
I, along with the Australian Government, stand firmly and proudly for multiculturalism — not just as a policy introduced in the 1970s, but as a defining feature of who we are as a nation. We reject the rhetoric of those who seek to create division or intimidate any of our migrant communities.
To those few who say immigrants should “go home,” I say this clearly: We are home.
And the Australian Government backs these words with action. Our policies are grounded in a commitment to inclusion, respect, and social cohesion.
A National Commitment to Diversity
Earlier this year, I had the honour of opening Australia’s first National Office for Multicultural Affairs — a milestone that not only celebrates the richness of our diversity but also recognises multiculturalism as a fundamental part of our national identity. It is central to who we are.
Today, multiculturalism is woven into the very fabric of modern Australian life. From Lunar New Year and Diwali to Rosh Hashanah, these celebrations light up towns and cities across the country, from coast to coast.
Australia’s story begins over 65,000 years ago with our First Nations peoples, whose ancient and continuing culture forms the foundation of this nation. Building upon that heritage, generations of migrants from across the world have made Australia their home — seeking education, career opportunities, safety, and a brighter future for their families.
Each wave of migration has brought new hopes, dreams, and determination — helping to build a stronger, more prosperous Australia. Our nation’s success is deeply tied to the contributions of migrants who have enriched our economy, culture, and communities, and strengthened our connection with the region and the wider world.
A Personal Story of Belonging
Like me, more than half of all Australians were either born overseas or have a parent who was. My own journey began when I arrived from Egypt with my parents at the age of two. We settled in Sydney’s western suburbs, where our neighbours came from Greece, China, and the former Yugoslavia. Together, we became part of a vibrant, multicultural community that reflected the heart of Australia itself.
The Indian-Australian Story
Today, Indians represent the fastest-growing and second-largest migrant community in Australia. Yet their connection to this land stretches back centuries. Indian traders were among the earliest to connect Australia with the wider world, and Indian cameleers helped link remote outback towns and communities.
Now, more than one million people of Indian heritage proudly call Australia home. They are making outstanding contributions across every field — from medicine, engineering, and education to hospitality, entrepreneurship, and the arts. Their hard work, innovation, and community spirit are evident in the thousands of small businesses they have built and the charitable, cultural, and sporting organisations they support.
Indian Australians embody the living bridge between our two nations. They bring Australia and India closer — strengthening ties of friendship, creativity, and opportunity. To deepen these bonds, we recently established the Centre for Australia-India Relations, which fosters connections in business, education, the creative arts, and community engagement.
Whether you come to Australia to study, work, visit, or settle permanently, every connection strengthens the bond between our two countries. And if you are considering making Australia your home, know this: We welcome you with open arms.
Source: Hindustan Times
