Migration models

Social researchers at Monash are engaged in mapping and analysing the movement of migrants and refugees, providing government with a means of measuring the level of acceptance of migration.

Director of the Institute for the Study of Global Movement Professor John Nieuwenhuysen says Australia is a highly successful nation of immigrants with overwhelmingly positive attitudes towards immigration and settlement policies.

But the economic downturn is likely to test tolerance levels.

"There is always more opposition to migration at times of downturn. Consequently, new arrivals are the ones who are blamed for taking away jobs. When unemployment starts rising, the popularity of immigration starts declining. No question about that."

There is research evidence that fears about unemployment can lead to increased levels of racism and racial violence.

The institute’s role is to forge links between policy makers in government, researchers and communities, to create a better understanding of the issues around migration and settlement.

"It is important, since the growth of immigration numbers from a diverse range of countries is likely to continue, that potential and actual sources of tension be identified," Professor Nieuwenhuysen said.

The institute, through the work of Professor Andrew Markus, is engaged in long term mapping of "social cohesion" through a national survey funded by the Scanlon Foundation. A 2009 follow up to the 2007 benchmark survey is now underway.

Professor Nieuwenhuysen said the research will identify any shifts in attitudes and be a vital resource for governments to guide their response.

"Preventative community relations initiatives may be needed, guided by sound evidence, to manage the ramifications of the economic downturn on community relations in Victoria."

Professor Nieuwenhuysen’s institute has links to the Monash campuses in South Africa and Malaysia and the centre in Prato, Italy.

"This institute connects the various parts of Monash through research and conferences which brings the world to Monash. Our research into social cohesion has relevance to all our campuses and links our scholars around the world."