One Nation’s plan to slash immigration by 750,000 temporary visas over three years would have a “severe impact” on WA’s economy, CCIWA warns.
However, the business community has slammed the “net-negative” migration stance, saying it would cripple the economy.
“In this State, we need more workers – not less,” CCIWA CEO Will Golsby said.
“A cut in skilled migration would turn our current skills shortage into a full-blown crisis.”
Industry projects and essential services at risk
Labour shortages have continued to hamstring WA businesses, with 60% reporting in CCIWA’s June Business Confidence Survey that it was their second biggest barrier to growth.
“WA is not like other states. Our mining industry is a significant employer and draws on a workforce that is also in demand across vital sectors like construction, manufacturing, trades, defence, hospitality and healthcare to name just a few,” Golsby said
“Such a drastic cut in overseas migration would make it even more difficult for the State to develop the infrastructure and deliver the services needed to serve our population.”
Concern for international education
The education sector would also be hit hard by significant migration cuts.
International education is WA’s largest services export, generating a revenue record of $4.3 billion in 2025. The sector creates one full-time job for every five international students.
“Any move to target international students as part of broader migration cuts would be short-sighted,” Golsby said.
“International students and their families also play an important role in our economy by taking on key jobs in areas of skills shortage, including in the manufacturing and hospitality sectors.
“Their contribution to our economy goes beyond the direct impact of their tuition fees.”
READ MORE: Universities shift focus to skills, industry and workforce needs
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