Published: 11:26 AM, 26 August 2026
South Asian Migrants in Australia Complain About Racial Discrepancies
South Asian migrants in Australia are increasingly drawing attention to experiences of racial discrimination and unequal treatment in workplaces, educational institutions, public spaces and everyday social life. While Australia is widely recognized as a multicultural country, migrants from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal and other South Asian nations say that racism and prejudice remain barriers to achieving full equality and social inclusion.
The concerns come amid a broader national discussion about discrimination and social cohesion. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, about 17 per cent of people in Australia reported experiencing discrimination based on skin colour, ethnic origin or religion during the 12 months covered by the 2024 Mapping Social Cohesion data.
Recent research has also highlighted the experiences of migrants from some of Australia's fastest-growing communities. A study reported by SBS in February 2026, involving more than 8,000 migrants from communities including India, Pakistan and Nepal, found that although most migrants developed a growing sense of belonging, many continued to experience discrimination.
For South Asian migrants, the problem can take different forms. Some report being stereotyped because of their accents, names, skin colour, religion or cultural background. Others say they have faced difficulties securing employment despite possessing appropriate qualifications and professional experience. Such experiences can be particularly frustrating for highly skilled migrants who expect their education and professional achievements to be recognized on equal terms.
Workplace discrimination remains a major concern. Research published through the Australian National University has previously found evidence of discrimination against Asian migrant men in the Australian labour market. More recent research focusing specifically on Pakistani migrant women found that the combination of gender, religion, race and ethnicity can increase vulnerability to workplace discrimination.
The Australian Human Rights Commission has also documented particular difficulties faced by South Asian international students and temporary workers. Its anti-racism research notes that restrictive visa conditions can push some migrants into precarious employment, including gig-economy work, where they may face exploitative pay, poor conditions and limited opportunities to seek redress for discrimination.
Language and immigration status can make the situation more complicated. Newly arrived migrants may be unfamiliar with Australian workplace laws and complaint procedures. Those working in low-paid or temporary positions may also fear that complaining about an employer could jeopardize their employment or visa prospects. As a result, some incidents may never be formally reported.
Women from South Asian backgrounds can face additional challenges. Gender expectations, religious identity and racial stereotypes may overlap, creating forms of discrimination that are difficult to address through a single category. Research into Pakistani migrant women in Australian workplaces has specifically identified this intersection of gender, religion, race and ethnicity.
Racial prejudice is not limited to workplaces. Migrants have reported discriminatory behaviour in shops, restaurants, universities, rental housing and public spaces. Earlier research involving Asian Australians found particularly high reported levels of discrimination, with workplaces and commercial settings among the most common locations.
For some South Asians, discrimination can also intersect with caste. A community consultation involving Dalit Australians documented allegations of exclusion, caste-based insults and discrimination in schools, universities, workplaces and businesses. Such findings demonstrate that diversity within South Asian communities must also be recognized when discussing equality.
The issue has gained renewed public attention as Australia debates immigration, multiculturalism and national identity. Political rhetoric about migration can influence public attitudes, particularly when migrants are portrayed as responsible for housing shortages, pressure on public services or economic difficulties. Community leaders argue that policy disagreements should not become excuses for racial stereotyping or hostility towards individuals.
Recent legal developments have also highlighted the continuing debate over racial vilification in Australia. In July 2026, the Federal Court upheld a finding that Senator Pauline Hanson's social-media comments directed at Greens Senator Mehreen Faruqi breached the Racial Discrimination Act. Hanson has indicated that she intends to challenge the decision in the High Court, keeping questions about racial vilification and freedom of political communication at the centre of national debate.
South Asian community organizations say Australia must ensure that multiculturalism is reflected not only in population statistics but also in equal opportunities. Employers should strengthen anti-discrimination policies, universities should provide accessible support systems, and migrants should receive clear information about their legal rights.
The government also has a responsibility to ensure that complaints can be made safely and independently. Better data collection could help identify patterns of discrimination in employment, housing and education, while stronger enforcement could discourage employers and institutions from treating migrants unfairly.
At the same time, migrants themselves should be encouraged to participate fully in Australian society. Community engagement, English-language support, professional networks and awareness of legal rights can help newcomers overcome barriers and build confidence.
Australia's multicultural success ultimately depends on whether people from different backgrounds feel that they belong and are treated with dignity. South Asian migrants have contributed significantly to Australian businesses, universities, health services, technology, hospitality and other sectors. Their concerns about racial discrepancies should therefore be taken seriously.
A diverse society cannot be judged simply by the number of nationalities living within its borders. True multiculturalism requires equal opportunity, mutual respect and protection from discrimination. Addressing racial inequality would not only benefit South Asian migrants but also strengthen Australia's broader social cohesion and reaffirm the principle that every person, regardless of birthplace, skin colour or cultural background, deserves to be treated fairly.
