The number of Australians migrating abroad increased in 2006, with just under 68,000 (roughly half of whom are Australian born) choosing to leave the shores of Australia for destinations such as New Zealand, Britain, The US, Hong Kong and Singapore.

On the other hand, the figures reflecting the number of migrant arrivals in Australia rose to 131,600; an increase of 8000 on the previous year. One in five migrants arrived from Britain which accounted for some 23,300 arrivals over the course of the year. Families from elsewhere came from countries such as New Zealand, India, China, The Philippines, South Africa and Sudan.

Immigration Minister Amanda Vanstone welcomed the influx of new migrants into Australia, mentioning the skills, experience and aspirations that they will bring to the country. Most new migrants entered Australia through the family and skills streams of the migration program, and although many chose to remain in the more urban areas of the country, an increasing number are settling in more regional areas thanks to improved support networks and incentives.