PoliticsImmigrationPrint articleImmigrationHow the Liberal Party can win back voters on migration policyThe Liberals should support a move towards a genuinely skilled migration program that relies on labour-market signals.Cathal LeslieEconomistFeb 6, 2026 – 5.00amJohn Howard’s electoral success owed much to his ability to unite disparate parts of the electorate around a narrative of rising living standards and home ownership.In recent years, Australia’s migration settings have worked against both. Unless the Liberal Party confronts this reality, the erosion of its voter base will continue – as reflected in growing support for One Nation.Loading...SaveLog in or Subscribe to save articleShareCopy linkCopiedEmailLinkedInTwitterFacebookCopy linkCopiedShare via...Gift this articleSubscribe to gift this articleGift 5 articles to anyone you choose each month when you subscribe.Subscribe nowAlready a subscriber? LoginLicense articleIntroducing your NewsfeedFollow the topics, people and companies that matter to you.Find out moreRead MoreImmigrationOpinionFederal electionLiberal PartySussan LeyPopulationJohn HowardOECDAffordable housingRentingHousing affordabilityLatest In PoliticsFetching latest articlesMost Viewed In Politics