Displaced Persons Scheme brings a total of 170,000 refugees, mainly from Eastern Europe – Ukraine, Poland, Latvia, Estonia, Croatia.
In the period of post-war reconstruction 450,000 migrants arrive. Many people from non-English speaking countries take unskilled work, particularly those admitted under Displaced Persons Scheme and those from southern Europe, Middle East and Latin America.
Assimilation of new migrants is a priority. Migrants are expected to take on Australian way of life and learn English quickly. Few services are available apart from basic English.
Aliens Act requires all non-British people over 16 to register and notify the Government of changes in circumstances.
Immigration Advisory Council is established.
Assisted Passage Scheme for Empire and American ex-servicemen and women who had served in Australia is introduced; this is later extended to members of wartime resistance movements.
Australia signs agreement with Preparatory Commission of the International Refugee Organisation for resettlement of European refugees. Polish refugees land in Tasmania to work on Hydro-Electric Scheme.
Bonegilla Immigration Reception and Training Centre is opened.
Census shows total population of 7.6 million (90% Australian born, 7% born in United Kingdom and Ireland).
