A new ABC News report has sparked fresh discussion about Australia’s approach to immigration, cultural diversity and social cohesion.

The 2026 Lowy Institute Poll recorded the largest decline in support for cultural diversity since the question was first asked. According to the report, 20% of respondents said cultural diversity was “mostly negative” for Australia, while 6% described it as “entirely negative.”

The findings come at a time when immigration, housing affordability and population growth are becoming increasingly prominent public issues.

Supporters of a more multicultural Australia argue that migrants contribute to the economy, bring skills and perspectives, and have become an important part of Australian society.

At the same time, those calling for lower immigration or a stronger emphasis on a shared national culture point to concerns around housing availability, infrastructure, population growth and social integration.

The debate has also become more politically charged, with One Nation leader Pauline Hanson calling for Australia to move towards what she describes as a “monoculture.”

But the discussion raises a broader question: can a country address legitimate concerns about immigration and population growth without creating division between communities?

For many people from migrant backgrounds, the tone of political debate also matters. The ABC report includes accounts from community leaders who say increasingly hostile rhetoric can contribute to experiences of racism and exclusion.

For others, however, raising questions about immigration policy should not automatically be equated with opposition to migrants or multicultural communities.

There may be room for both conversations.

What do you think?

How should Australia balance immigration, social cohesion, economic needs and a shared sense of national identity?

We’d like to hear different perspectives.