Beyond White Australia: Sri Lankan-born migration to Australia since 1947

This thesis examines the history of Sri Lankan-born migration to Australia, which commenced in 1947 during the height of the White Australia policy. Its objective is to increase understanding of these immigrants. It examines the reasons for their departure, the impact of changes in intake policy on the ethnicity of the immigrants, and their settlement experiences. Intake policy has favoured people with occupational skills and English language proficiency. Skills and English language ability have indeed facilitated adjustment to Australian society, but it is argued that family links and community networks have also been of considerable significance.