Australian Racism Towards Indigenous People Rises to 54% as Activist's Tweet Fuels Debate on Migrant Integration

Australian political activist Drew Pavlou has ignited public discussion on racial tensions, asserting that "the best way to lower racial tensions in Australian society is for migrants to be respectful of the people who built up Australia as a country before they came here." In a recent social media post, Pavlou specifically criticized rhetoric such as “Stolen Land,” “convicts,” and “not your country anyway,” labeling it "extremely explosive for racial tensions." His comments come amidst ongoing national conversations about identity and social cohesion.

The phrases highlighted by Pavlou carry deep historical significance within Australia. "Stolen Land" refers to the dispossession of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples from their ancestral lands since European colonization, a foundational grievance for Indigenous Australians. The term "convicts" points to Australia's origins as a British penal colony, a historical aspect that has shaped national identity. This historical context forms a complex backdrop for discussions on modern Australian society and migration.

Recent data underscores a significant increase in racial discrimination experienced by Indigenous Australians. The Australian Reconciliation Barometer reported a rise in racism towards Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people from 39% in 2014 to 54% in 2024, with younger First Nations people reporting even higher levels. This surge is partly attributed to the divisive public discourse surrounding the 2023 Voice to Parliament referendum campaign.

The tweet also surfaces as Australia grapples with heightened anti-immigration sentiment. Recent "March for Australia" rallies, which saw thousands protest against migration in major cities, have been condemned by the government and linked to far-right extremism. These demonstrations have caused fear among migrant communities and highlighted deep divisions within the country regarding its multicultural identity.

Human rights bodies have warned against the dangers of such rhetoric.

"Inaccurate and dehumanising rhetoric over migration risks fanning the flames of racism, and distracts from the real causes of inequality," stated Australia’s Race Discrimination Commissioner, Giridharan Sivaraman.

He emphasized that migration enriches communities and contributes to economic growth, urging respectful discussion on policy.

Pavlou, a young activist known for his strong stances, particularly against the Chinese Communist Party, has a history of controversial public statements and protests. While his activism often focuses on human rights, he has previously faced accusations of fueling anti-Asian sentiment and has been involved in legal disputes related to his provocative actions, adding another layer to the ongoing debate his latest tweet has sparked.