Peter Mousaferiadis, CEO of Cultural Infusion and a long-time advocate for multiculturalism and social cohesion, has argued that Australia’s response to growing public concerns around housing, migration and national identity must remain inclusive rather than divisive.
Writing in response to Pauline Hanson’s recent address to the National Press Club, Mousaferiadis acknowledged that many Australians are facing genuine pressures, including housing affordability and cost-of-living challenges, and said these concerns should not be dismissed.
“The major parties need to bring these people back in by addressing their most fundamental fears and needs,” he wrote.
One Nation has gained support among voters frustrated by housing shortages, rising costs and population growth. Hanson has argued that immigration levels should be reduced and has linked migration to a range of economic and social pressures facing the country.
Mousaferiadis said while these concerns are real, migrants should not be blamed for problems that have developed over decades through policy and planning decisions.
“Australia has thrived because of its diversity,” he wrote, noting that successive generations of migrants, alongside First Nations peoples and long-established Australians, have helped shape modern Australia.
The Cultural Infusion CEO argued that governments should focus on addressing housing supply, infrastructure planning and economic security rather than framing migration as the primary cause of Australia’s current challenges.
He also expressed concern that political rhetoric which divides communities risks weakening social cohesion at a time when many Australians are already feeling disconnected from government and public institutions.
“Australia’s future will not be secured by setting one group against another,” Mousaferiadis wrote.
Mousaferiadis also defended multicultural institutions, including SBS, describing them as important platforms for diverse Australian voices and stories.
The debate comes as political parties across the spectrum continue to grapple with questions surrounding migration, housing and national identity. While views differ on the solutions, these issues remain central to the national conversation.
For Mousaferiadis, the challenge is ensuring discussions about Australia’s future do not come at the expense of inclusion and belonging.
“The story to unite Australians needs to include all Australians,” he wrote.
