TTPI Seminar Series
This presentation evaluates the impact of the Adult Migrant English Program on the economic integration of humanitarian migrants in Australia. Using a staggered difference-in-differences approach and longitudinal data from the Building a New Life in Australia survey, the analysis estimates the causal effect of AMEP participation on welfare dependency. Results indicate a statistically significant average reduction of 17.9 percent in welfare reliance across three post-treatment periods. A heterogeneity analysis reveals that program effectiveness varies by gender, geographic location, and pre-arrival education, underscoring the importance of tailored policy design.
These findings challenge prevailing assumptions that economic self-sufficiency is primarily achievable by high-skilled migrants, and instead highlight the potential of inclusive, skills-based settlement programs to improve fiscal outcomes and social cohesion. The study also explores the cost-benefit dimensions of AMEP, considering both direct program expenditures and long-term fiscal savings from reduced welfare dependency.
Event Speakers
Bowen Wang
An Economist at Treasury with prior experience in research and stats analysis at the ABS, DEWR and Education. Her work bridges research and policy through quantitative evaluation of policy impacts, particularly in migration and education. Passionate about data-driven insights informing effective and inclusive public policy.