The Coalition has issued a scathing critique of the Albanese Labour Government's approach to education and immigration, calling it "chaotic and confused." Shadow Ministers Sarah Henderson (Education), James Paterson (Home Affairs), and Dan Tehan (Immigration and Citizenship) expressed their worries in a joint media release on November 18, 2024, over record levels of international students and escalating migration numbers.

According to the Coalition, the government's policies have exacerbated Australia's housing issue, with the number of international students doubling from 474,493 in May 2022 to more than 800,000 today. Shadow ministers also highlighted Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) data, which show that net foreign migration has topped 1 million in just two years under Labour, a 70% rise from previous years.

The press statement criticised the government's proposed Education Bill, claiming that its provisions do not address the systemic difficulties facing the educational and housing sectors. The Coalition stated that Labor's proposals will exacerbate the situation, including increased road congestion, demand on services, and housing affordability.

"Labour simply cannot be trusted on immigration," the Coalition claimed, calling for stronger migration policy settings to address housing shortages and infrastructure strain. They emphasized that a future Coalition government will take "decisive action" to curb migration to reasonable levels while prioritizing Australians for homes and services.

The press release reflects an increase in political discourse as both main parties cope with the consequences of increased migration and housing shortages. The Coalition's assessment paves the way for further debate as the Education Bill moves through Parliament.