Migration and multiculturalism

Migration has been central to Australia’s identity, prosperity and security. Explore Australia’s migration history since 1901, including the challenges and cultural contributions of our migrants.

Topics

A topic is a collection of records with interpretation and inquiry questions. Each topic is aligned to the Australian Curriculum and focuses on an aspect of Australian history.

Topic

'Populate or perish': Australia's postwar migration program

By the end of World War II, Australia was suffering from shortages in the work force. Its small population and isolation increased its sense of vulnerability.
Topic

Migrant experiences in postwar Australia

In the aftermath of World War II, the Australian Government embarked on a large-scale immigration program.
Topic

Multiculturalism in Australia

Australia’s identity has changed significantly since World War II.
Topic

The Immigration Restriction Act and the White Australia policy

After Federation, the first parliament of the Commonwealth of Australia passed a package of legislation that would establish its racial boundaries as a nation.
Topic

The people who migrated to Australia

Since Australia became a nation in 1901, federal governments have adopted many different migration policies.
Topic

World War I: Chinese Anzacs

More than 200 Australians of Chinese heritage enlisted in the Australian Imperial Force during World War I.

Records

Each record focuses on a single item from the National Archives' collection. Some records contain extra information to help you interpret them.