Australia's Immigrants

1788-1988

'We're an anomaly as a European country in this part of the world. It is inevitable in my view that Australia will become a Eurasian country over the next century or two. I happen to think that's desirable. This means we are becoming part of the mainstream of this region.' - Governor-General Bill Hayden

Many Australians may dispute Bill Hayden's vision of the future; none can ignore it. As Australia enters the third century of European settlement, it is becoming increasingly important to understand how past and present arrivals of people and cultures both create and transform the social and economic fabric of our society.

In this second edition of Australia's Immigrants, Geoffrey Sherington uses the latest research findings to supplement his two century survey and to take account of the most recent changes to immigration and immigration policy - changes which have brought Australians much closer to a realisation of their place within the Anglo-Pacific region.

Now extensively revised, it remains the best one-volume account of the dynamic part migration has played in the formation of Australian society.

'Based on solid research, excellently readable and thought provoking.' - The History Teacher

'Brief, unpretentious and the sources are used skilfully. a considerable volume of useful information is marshalled and effectively ordered.' - Australian Journal of Politics and History