Conduction of Research

How we conducted our research.

Our research into the history of Asian immigration consisted of conducting interviews, using books from libraries, research on the internet (papers, government statistics, historical records, etc.).

Examples of primary sources we drew from includes interviews, news articles, legislation acts, etc. We conducted interviews with our family members to collate and investigate information on the history of our respective families' immigration experiences. The interviews provided different points of views at separate sections of history that helped us gain an understanding of the various situations that pushed Asian migrants to come to Australia.

A look into legislation acts provided pivotal information relating to the laws in place during certain times of history in Australia. The overall legislation placed in Australia at the time reflects the attitudes of the Australians at that time. As time progressed we see a change in different acts and the progression of Australia in accepting migrants and immigrants. News articles recounting events provided key information about specific events. Access to NLA's "trove" service was helpful by enabling us access to many different articles. The use of secondary sources provided abundant knowledge and help in reflecting on different aspects of immigration.

In relation to “making a better world”, Asian immigration has contributed in Australia becoming a rich and diverse place. These viewpoints enabled Australia to understand another country and race, which promotes immigration between countries and invites cooperation. In a world where there is tension between countries, the introduction of different races due to migration and immigration has allowed for a stronger connection in trust. From the history of Asian immigration in Australia we see that the mix of cultures has held many advantages to both Asia and Australia. Immigration allows Australia to form relations with other countries and this can consequently help boost the economic and business situations. From the Migration Act in 1958 to the contributions of the Governments of Bob Hawke and Paul Keating, such critical historical events has impacted on expanding Asian immigration within Australia.

While Asian immigration is not limited to Australia, it is important to note that Australia is in a region surrounded by Asian countries, and has shown through history to develop a greater relationship between many places of Asia. Today, it exists as one of the most multicultural societies in the world. Immigration undoubtedly relates to the theme of "Making a better world". Specifically, Asian immigration not only resulted in a better world for Asian immigrants who came to Australia, but has also allowed for Australia to develop as a country by establishing beneficial relationships with its Asian neighbours, furthermore increasing Australia's richness in culture and establishing a multicultural identity. In history Australia had provided a chance for immigrants which has led to its current development. Now, Australia serves as an exemplar of a multicultural place for the entire world to learn from and better improve upon.