Beyond Welfare: How Refugees Contribute to Australia’s Prosperity
Upon arrival in Australia, refugees often find themselves in need of basic assistance: housing, schools and medical care. Since they are newly arrived, many use welfare assistance, supporting them through the early period of the settlement. Contrary to popular belief, refugees are most certainly not a long-term welfare-dependency problem for the Australian economy and society. In fact, refugees become essential contributors to the Australian economy, society and future prosperity. Refugees are not a burden on society; rather, they are key workers who bring much-needed dynamism and reinvention to the Australian economy and society.
Moving from Dependence to Independence
The early months and first years of their life in Australia often involve some kind of settlement period in countries where the state plays a significant role in assisting people’s journey to a new sense of home: welfare benefits provide crucial support to refugees as they settle, adapt to new cultures and often new languages. But long-term welfare dependence for the vast majority of refugees is not an aim. Highly motivated to again become independent as fast as possible, and to begin living a stable, self-sustaining life, refugees endeavour to move off welfare as soon as they can.
Employment is the bridge across the chasm: when refugees find work, they transcend from dependency to independence. Working people pay their way, they contribute to the nation’s tax base and local economies, and they minimise the government’s demand and consumption of welfare. The transition from dependency to independence provides refugees with self-respect and demonstrates to their neighbours the value these newcomers bring to Australian society.
Economic Contributions of Refugees
Refugees bring skills, experience and innovation – think of new local businesses, healthcare and research. But many also encounter barriers to contributing to the Australian economy. They might have skills in healthcare, nursing, technology and engineering, education and science, business and entrepreneurship, but might have minimal local experience. Language barriers, lack of recognition of overseas qualifications and no clear pathways to work and usage of their skills all provide challenges to harnessing the skillset of refugees.
When they’re in paid employment, refugees contribute to the economy in three ways. First, they pay tax, thus funding public services and infrastructure. Second, they spend their salaries on the goods and services produced locally, thus supporting local small businesses. In this manner, refugees could help to alleviate significant labour shortages that exist in sectors such as healthcare, construction, agriculture and so on by taking roles that could otherwise go unfilled.
What’s more, research has demonstrated that refugees are among the most enterprising members of the population. Refugees tend to be highly industrious, and studies have shown that many end up starting their own businesses, which lead to job creation and economic growth, profit not only for refugees but also growth for the wider Australian economy by employing others and creating more economic activity at the local level.
Cultural Contributions and Social Integration
And besides these economic contributions, they make a substantial social contribution to the Australia community. For most refugees, they not only become Australians but they also bring with them their unique cultural perspectives, traditions and experiences that can further enrich the diverse and inclusive society of Australia. This way, the Australian communities not only gain a culturally diverse population but also develop understanding, tolerance and well-developed actions for cross-cultural cooperation.
And businesses that employ refugees in turn benefit from their diversity. Numerous studies have demonstrated that diverse teams demonstrate greater innovation, creativity and productivity. Diverse experiences, such as those of refugees, can support a dynamic and creative workforce, while enriching the performance and culture of Australian businesses.
Conclusion
Welfare dependence and unemployment among refugees obscures their potential to contribute positively to Australia’s wellbeing and prosperity. Once given the opportunity to work, refugees are quick to become economically and socially independent. Their skills, creativity and cultural diversity enrich their communities and power the Australian economy.
With labour shortages and economic struggles, Australia needs all the workers it can get. Refugees are a ready labour force that can help build a stronger, more equitable future. The government should invest in refugee employment and integration not only to help refugees rebuild their lives and communities, but also to foster a prosperous future for the nation.
