The economics of a multicultural Australia: A literature review

Abstract

The growth of a multicultural Australia is generating debate on the economic effects of multiculturalism. This paper examines the extent to which competing claims can draw support from the literature and die extent to which economic issues arising from the growth of a multicultural Australian society have been identified and assessed. A literature review of the economic effects of multiculturalism in Australia has been undertaken by accessing a recendy completed computer linked data base which provides a comprehensive coverage of Australian publications on multicultural affairs. The areas of economic research are identified and assessed. There is a need for more modelling and testing of the economic effects of multicultural growth. At present, policy approaches owe more to religious conviction than an understanding of causal relationships.