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New research suggests Queenslanders believe welcoming migrants is the Australian way of life

New research commissioned by Multicultural Development Australia (MDA), Queensland’s leading provider of refugee settlement services, has shown that Queenslanders are more positive about migration than what is often portrayed politically.

The research underpins the re-brand of the organisation to Multicultural Australia and a commitment to raising the voice of the majority of Queenslanders who recognise the benefits of migration and want to see the community unite to help migrants settle well in their new home.

This weekend’s annual MOSAIC Multicultural Festival celebrates the contribution of refugees and migrants to Queensland and is attended by more than 10,000 people who embrace the call for a more welcoming public narrative.

The research into attitudes towards migrants in Queensland revealed that most Queenslanders have positive thoughts around refugees, asylum seekers, international students and skilled migrants.

• Almost three-quarters (73%) of those surveyed said that accepting people of different cultures is part of being Australian
• 56% agreed that, overall, Queensland has benefitted from migrants moving to the state
• 61% agreed that Queenslanders are welcoming people who accept migrants of any background
• 69% agreed that migrants need the support of the entire community to help them settle in Queensland
• 70% agreed that the majority of migrants are responsible and law-abiding people

“We want to bridge the divide between the current narrative and the real-life attitudes of Queenslanders by gathering a community of people who know that welcoming migrants benefits everyone,” said MDA CEO Kerrin Benson.

“Many refugees and other migrants come here escaping from terrible and traumatic situations. They come to contribute like everyone else and are grateful for the chance to work, make new friends and be a part of the community. They work hard to provide a better life for their children.

“However, there’s a lot of misinformation and negativity which prevents Queenslanders from discovering the full contribution migrants can and do make to our economy, society and culture. Refugees and other migrants should not be used as scapegoats for the challenges many Queenslanders face. We want everyone to know that migration benefits us all and that a more welcoming Queensland is better for everyone.”

This comes after a recent report from Deloitte Access Economics said that the Australian economy would be boosted by $5 billion a year and able to sustain 35,000 full-time jobs if refugee intake was increased, even temporarily.

The new brand will be announced at the MOSAIC Multicultural Festival at Roma Street Parklands on Sunday, 13^th October from 10am.

Media contact: Afsah Haque 0410 860 435