The Department of Home Affairs, Australia has a provision of allowing people from other countries to visit, work, study or live in Australia for a specific time period, depending on the visa types the applicant holds. The purpose of migration is to build the economy, shape society, support the labor market, and reunite families.

The migration program size and composition are flexible and change over time, from a smaller program with mostly family migrants in 1993-94 to a larger program with more skilled migrants in 2013-14. Planning levels are set by the government each year and are informed following broad consultations with stakeholders, including business and community groups from all states and territories. The size and composition change to meet the social and economic needs of Australia.

Home Affairs brings together Australia’s federal law enforcement, national and transport security, criminal justice, emergency management, multicultural affairs, settlement services, and immigration and border-related functions, working together to keep Australia safe.