Australia is one of the most successful, diverse and cohesive societies in the world.
We owe our accomplishments as a nation to the contributions of more than 300 different ancestries – from the First Australians to the newest arrivals.
Australia welcomes those who have migrated here to be part of our free and open society, to build their lives and make a contribution to our nation. We welcome their enthusiasm to get involved and reach out in their new communities to help others.
Our cultural diversity is one of our greatest assets – it sparks innovation, creativity and vitality. Our economy is strengthened by the skills, knowledge, linguistic capabilities and networks of our diverse workforce.
Australia has the 2nd highest proportion of foreign born citizens in the OECD (29.2%)
A welcoming country
- 3 in 10 Australians are born overseas
- 86% of Australians believe multiculturalism has been good for Australia
- The vast majority of Australians think people from different national or ethnic groups get on well together
Source: Scanlon Foundation, Mapping Social Cohesion 2021
Our inclusive national identity is built around our shared values. Australians believe in respect, mateship and a fair go. These define and shape our country, and together with our democratic institutions, have created our peaceful, prosperous and stable society.