Is Labor’s migration plan tackling a real problem or a political one?
Sep 18, 2026 •
After one false start and a hell of a lot of political pressure from the right, Labor has finally unveiled its long-awaited immigration plans.
Backpackers, students and visa overstayers will all be targeted by the measures – designed to bring net overseas migration down from around 300 thousand, to 225 thousand by 2028.
So what impact will the overhaul have on our economy, our communities, and on Labor’s re-election prospects?
Today, journalist Peter Mares – who writes extensively on immigration for Inside Story magazine – on what’s in store, and whether the issue Labor’s addressing is a political problem, or a real one.
If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support.
Is Labor’s migration plan tackling a real problem or a political one?
2048 • Sep 18, 2026
Is Labor’s migration plan tackling a real problem or a political one?
After one false start and a hell of a lot of political pressure from the right, Labor has finally unveiled its long-awaited immigration plans.
Backpackers, students and visa overstayers will all be targeted by the measures – designed to bring net overseas migration down from around 300 thousand, to 225 thousand by 2028.
So what impact will the overhaul have on our economy, our communities, and on Labor’s re-election prospects?
Today, journalist Peter Mares – who writes extensively on immigration for Inside Story magazine – on what’s in store, and whether the issue Labor’s addressing is a political problem, or a real one.
If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support.
Guest: Inside Story Magazine journalist Peter Mares
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7am is a daily show from Solstice Media.
It’s made by Atticus Bastow, Chris Dengate, Daniel James, Krystal Keller, Ranee Orklin, Ruby Jones, Travis Evans and Zoltan Fecso.
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