Filipino Overseas Migration 6

Filipino Australians comprise the fifth-largest subgroup of the Overseas Filipinos. According to recent statistics, they number approximately 390,000 and more. Filipinos are the third largest immigrant group in Australia, living mostly in New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland and Western Australia.

A bit of history; the 1901 census of Australia recorded about 700 Filipinos in Australia, mostly from the pearl culture areas of Western Australia and the sugar plantations of Queensland. The White Australia Policy was a demeaning and racist policy that was abolished in 1966.

In 1970, Filipino overseas migration to Australia started with migrant workers or spouses of Australian citizens.  Filipino Australian marriages increased from 1978 to 1989. From 1990 until 1999, there was a slight decline, then revived again in 2000.

Onwards, there was moderate increase as skilled workers and professionals began entering Australia and sometimes with their dependents (wife and children). In recent years, Filipino – Australians have gained respect for their hard work and artistry.