Issue Region-led immigration and settlement policy to counter regional decline

Summary

Ageing has deepened regional reliance on migrants, while local SMEs, farms and fisheries that employ seasonal workers and migrants face recurring problems of illegal stay and employment and poor housing and working conditions. Migrant policy so far has been led by the justice, foreign affairs and labour ministries through visas and seasonal worker schemes. The report proposes region-led immigration and settlement, with wider regional visas through devolution of central powers and recruitment of foreign talent matched to local industries. Integrated centres specialised by region would support settlement of migrant families, alongside a stable employment and living base for migrants in local communities. The expected effect is relief of labour shortages in local industries, a larger living population and a defence against regional extinction.