2.
We are an industrialised nation with a high standard of
living and the scope for large-scale continuing development.
We
have almost everything needed to develop the only continent which
is one nation.
Australia is sometimes called the lucky country.
In
many ways, it is: but it also has elements of misfortune in that
its long coast line, extensive territory and resources are not
matched by the size of our economic base and population. The
recent debate on the geo-political situation initiated by the
Minister for Foreign Affairs, the Hon. Andrew Peacock, drew
attention to the major international issues we face. Some are of
the most fundamental and critical importance to the maintenance of
a peaceful and stable world. There are also developments such as
200 mile economic zone and the dramatic challenges presented to us
in Australia by the boat people requiring a basic reappraisal of
our place in the international community and of our attitude towards
the growth of Australia's population.
Others
We know there is a strong interest from residents of
other countries in the opportunity to settle in Australia.
see Australia's vast land mass, resources and affluence and its
small population. We are expected to provide settlement
opportunities for people wishing to migrate. We are seen as a
haven for refugees and displaced persons from around the world.
Australia has always espoused the principle that each country should
be free to determine the size and composition of its migrant intake,
but we should be naive to believe that we can ignore the expectation
of the rest of the world that Australia will go on accepting
significant numbers of settlers from abroad.
.../3
No comments yet.
Private notes are available after approval.