The Joint Standing Committee on Migration will hold the first public hearing for its inquiry into the value of skilled migration to Australia in Canberra on Friday, 13 March 2026.
The Committee will hear from Australian Government departments and agencies, including the Department of Home Affairs, about the vital contribution skilled migration makes to Australia’s economy and how the skilled migration program works to support Australia’s current and future needs. The Committee will also hear from stakeholders about skilled migration in regional and fast-growing areas and communities.
The inquiry is seeking to better understand the enduring economic, social and cultural value of skilled migration to Australia, as well as examine the skilled migration program’s effectiveness in addressing skills gaps and supporting the ongoing needs of Australian businesses. The Committee will also consider the requirements of the states and territories and is particularly interested in how to build public awareness and understanding about the important role of skilled migration in Australia.
Committee Chair, Mr Steve Georganas MP said: “Skilled migration plays an important role in Australia’s economic success by meeting labour shortages and filling skills gaps, as well as supporting local communities and enhancing cultural diversity. This inquiry is a valuable opportunity ensure the skilled migration program is operating effectively and that we have the settings right.
The Committee has received a high number of quality submissions to the inquiry and is looking forward to hearing more from stakeholders across the community to better understand their views.”
The Committee intends to hold more public hearings in due course.
Further information about the inquiry, including the terms of reference, submissions, public hearing transcripts and upcoming public hearings, is available on the inquiry webpage.
Public hearing details
Date: Friday, 13 March 2026
Time: 8.30am to 12.20pm (AEDT)
Location: Committee Room 1R3, Parliament House, Canberra
The hearing will be broadcast live at www.youtube.com/@AUSParliamentLive.
Media inquiries
Office of Mr Steve Georganas MP, Committee Chair
0437 387 378
[email protected]
Megan Thomas
0431 736 060
For background information
Joint Standing Committee on Migration
(02) 6277 4560
[email protected]
