Shows
Made in MigrationSeason's End: Reflecting, Recharging, and Looking Ahead to 2026Date of recording: 6 December 2025End of year message:As we close out another incredible year on Made in Migration, we want to pause and reflect on the journey we’ve shared together.This season has been nothing short of inspiring. We’ve explored powerful stories of resilience, creativity, and transformation—stories that remind us how migration shapes not only individual lives but entire communities. From candid conversations to deep dives into culture and identity, every episode has been a testament to the strength and richness that migration brings to our world...
2025-12-2903 minMade in Migration#29 | From Broadmeadows to the Boardroom - The Crazy Life of John IlhanSummary:This episode of the Made in Migration podcast explores the inspiring journey of John Ilhan, a migrant who transformed the mobile retail industry in Australia. From his humble beginningsas a five-year-old migrant to becoming a successful entrepreneur with Crazy John's, his story is one of resilience, innovation, and philanthropy. John Ilhan’s legacy continues to inspire many, showcasing the power of hard work andcommunity spirit.Keywords:John Ilhan, Mustafa Ilhan, Crazy John's, Australian immigration, entrepreneurship, mobile retail, philanthropy,migrant success stories, resilience, business legacy, community impactChapters:00:46 - Th...
2025-12-2206 minMade in Migration#28 | The Last Shoemaker – Wadih YacoubSummary:The episode of the Made in Migration explores the life and journey of Wadih Yacoub, a shoemaker who migrated from Tripoli (Lebanon) to Melbourne in 1974. It delves into his earlyexperiences with craftsmanship, the challenges he faced, and the legacy of shoemaking that he continues to uphold. The discussion highlights the importance of tradition, family, and the art of creating lasting products in a modern world.Keywords:Wadih Yacoub, Milad Yacoub, shoemaking, craftsmanship, legacy, Tripoli, Lebanon, Melbourne, family, tradition, art, leather, Brad Parkinson, Parigina ShoesChapters:00:00 - The Journey...
2025-12-0809 minMade in Migration#27 | Balancing Migration in Australia: Regional Needs, SIV, Partner Visas & the Future of Skilled Intake — with Peter Van Vliet (MIA CEO)Date of recording: 29/10/2025Summary:In this episode, we discuss the intricate dynamics of Australia's migration system with Peter Van Vliet, CEO ofthe Migration Institute of Australia and former Assistant Secretary of the Department of Home Affairs. With a wealth of experience in migration policy, Peter offers valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for migrants in Australia.Keywords:Peter van Vliet, Migration Institute of Australia, MIA, migration, partner program, skilled visas, economy, immigration reformChapters:02:04 — Peter’s migrant-family roots & the evolution of Australian society
2025-11-2442 minMade in Migration#26 | From Surviving to Thriving: Nathaniel Diong on Migration, Mental Health, and Redefining Success for Gen ZDate of recording: 25/09/2025Summary:In this inspiring episode, we sat down with Nathaniel Diong—Malaysia-born founder and CEO of Future Minds Network, Forbes 30 Under 30 Asia honouree, and advocate for youth empowerment. Nathaniel shares the untold story behind his family’s migration to Australia, the cultural expectations that shaped his early years, and the personal battles he faced with mental health. He reveals how a single hackathon changed hislife’s trajectory, leading him to launch programs that have upskilled over 13,000 young people across Australia.Nathaniel discusses the challenges migrant and disabled youth face in educat...
2025-11-1045 minMade in Migration#25 | From Boat Refugee to Entrepreneur: Huy Truong's JourneySummary:In this episode, Huy Truong shares his inspiring journey from being a refugee to becoming a successful entrepreneur and advocate for migrant and refugee economic participation in Australia. He discusses the challenges faced during his journey to Australia, the importance of education and sports in his integration, and his entrepreneurial ventures, including the co-founding of Thrive Refugee Enterprise, which empowers refugees to start their own businesses. Huy also emphasises the need for policy changes to support migrant and refugee economic participation and offers advice to future generations of migrants and refugees.Keywords:...
2025-09-2244 minMade in Migration#24 | The Impact of Post-Study Work Rights on AustraliaSummary:This episode features a discussion with Harshit Shah and Silvia Griselda from the E61 Institute, focusing on their latest report about the impact of temporary graduate visa reforms and post-study work rights on Australia's economy and society. The conversation delves into the importance of post-study work rights, the effects of COVID-19 on migration policies, the methodology used in their research, and theimplications of their findings for future migration policy. Keywords:Australian immigration, post-study work rights, temporary graduate visa, migration policy, labour market outcomes, COVID-19 impact, international students, economic contribution, migration research, E61...
2025-09-0851 minMade in Migration#23 | Les Murray AM - A Migrant’s Game, A Nation’s VoiceSummary:This episode of Made in Migration explores the life and legacy of the late Les Murray AM, a prominent figure in Australian sports broadcasting and a refugee from Hungary. It delves into his journey to Australia, his passion for soccer/football, and how he became a voice for multiculturalism in Australia. Les’ story highlights the impact of migration on identity and community, showcasing how his experiences shaped his contributions to Australian society.Keywords:migration, Les Murray, Australia, soccer, football, refugee stories, multiculturalism, sports broadcasting, community, resilience, identityChapters:00:41...
2025-08-2511 minMade in Migration#22 | Golf as a Networking Tool: Insights from Raj Narayan’s Migration StoryDate of recording: 24 June 2025 Summary:In this episode of the Made in Migration podcast, Raj Narayan shares her inspiring journey from a corporate executive to the founder of Emajin Golf, a business that reimagines golf as an inclusive networking tool. She discusses the challenges of migrating, the importance of resilience, and how golf serves as a powerful equaliser in building relationships. Raj emphasises the significance of community and support for migrants looking to start their own ventures, and shares her vision for expanding Emajin Golf internationally.Keywords:Migration, Australia, golf, networking...
2025-08-1135 minMade in Migration#21 | Migration and Work: What the Data Tells Us with Professor Sue Richardson AMDate of recording: 23 June 2025 Summary:In this episode of Made in Migration, Professor Sue Richardson AM discusses the intricate relationship between migration and Australia's labour market. She highlights the historical context of migration in Australia, the economic myths surrounding it, and the shift towards temporary migration. The conversation also delves into the impact of temporary migrants on Australian workers, employer perspectives on labour shortages, and the role of education in preparing the workforce. Finally, Professor Richardson shares insights on migration's impact on productivitygrowth and the future of migration policy in Australia.
2025-07-2844 minMade in Migration#20 | The Intersection of Law, Business, and Philanthropy with Peter McMullin AMDate of recording: 17 June 2025 Summary:In this episode of the Made in Migration podcast, Peter McMullin AM shares his extensive career spanning law, business, public service, and philanthropy. He discusses his early influences, the importance of addressing statelessness, and the establishment of the Good Business Foundation. Mr. McMullin emphasises the role of migration in shaping Melbourne's economy and the arts in telling migrant stories. He offers insights into leadership, the challenges of migration, and expresses hope for the future of Australia in relation to migration and belonging. Keywords:Migration, Australia, Peter...
2025-07-1436 minMade in Migration#19 | A Conversation with Former Prime Minister Hon. John Howard OM ACDate of recording: 10 June 2025 Summary:In this episode of the Made in Migration podcast, former Prime Minister Hon. John Howard OM AC discusses theevolution of Australia's migration policies during his tenure from 1996 to 2007. He reflects on the significance of migration to Australia's national interest, the balance between skilled and family-based migration, and the ongoing debates surrounding multiculturalism and social cohesion. Mr. Howard emphasises the importance of integration and the need for respectful discussions about migration, while also addressing the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for Australia's immigration system.Keywords:
2025-06-3021 minMade in Migration#18 | Carla Zampatti - Style, Strength, and the Spirit of MigrationSummary:This episode of Made in Migration explores the inspiring story of the late Carla Zampatti AC, an Italian migrant who became a prominent figure in Australian fashion. From her early life in Italy to her successful career in Australia, Carla's journey embodies resilience, empowerment, and the transformative power of migration. Her design not only shaped the fashion landscape but also empowered women in leadership roles, making her a trailblazer in both fashion and society. Carla's legacy continues to inspire future generations, highlighting the importance of identity and belonging in the migration experience. Keywords:
2025-06-0210 minMade in Migration#17 | In Defence of the Points-Based System | Professor Glenn Withers AOGuest: Emeritus Professor Glenn Withers AODate of recording: 16 April 2025 Summary:In this episode of the Made in Migration podcast, we engage with Emeritus Professor Glenn Withers AO, an esteemed economist and policy advisor, to discuss the complexities ofAustralia's migration policy. The conversation covers current migration numbers, the role of international students, the effectiveness of the points-based immigration system, and the intersection of migration with population issues and climate challenges. Professor Withers emphasises the need for collaboration among stakeholders and the importance of addressing housing supply to accommodate increased migration. The discussion also...
2025-05-0534 minMade in Migration#16 | Navigating Migration Law: Insights from a Retired JudgeGuest: retired judge Rolf Driver AMDate of recording: 17 March 2025Summary:In this episode of the Made in Migration podcast, retired judge Rolf Driver AM shares his insights on migration and refugee law, reflecting on his career and the challenges faced in the Australian judicial system. He discusses the transition from his judicial role to retirement, his ongoing involvement in refugee law, and the complexities of handling migration cases. Judge Driver emphasises the importance of understanding the historical context of migration law, thechallenges of unrepresented litigants, and the perception of the Australian judiciary...
2025-04-1433 minMade in Migration#15 | A conversation with Andy Reid - Navigating the real estate market as a migrantGuest: Andy ReidDate of recording: 24 February 2025Summary:In this episode of the Made in Migration podcast, Andy Reid shares his journey from the UK to Australia, detailing his early life, education, and the challenges he faced while transitioning into the Australian real estate market. He discusses the importance of embracing one's identity asa migrant, the significance of community, and his passion for Australian Rules Football. Andy emphasises the need for respect towards the new country and the personal growth that comes from overcoming obstacles in a foreign land. Andy also talks about...
2025-03-3151 minMade in Migration#14 | From War-Torn Iran to Legal Success in AustraliaGuest: Rex AfrasiabiDate of recording: 29 January 2025Summary:In this episode of the Made in Migration podcast, Rex Afrasiabi shares his inspiring journey from a war-torn Iran to becoming a successful lawyer in Australia. He discusses the challenges of adapting to a new culture and language, the resilience developed through his experiences, and his unique approach to law through focusing on the real estate sector. Rex also highlights the importance of innovation in legal practices and the growth of his firm, New Chapter Legal, which focuses on providing exceptional service to clients in...
2025-03-1745 minMade in Migration#13 | Navigating the Complexities of Visa Hopping with Silvia Griselda & Harshit ShahGuests: Silvia Griselda and Harshit ShahDate of recording: 28 January 2025Summary:This episode of the Made in Migration podcast explores the phenomenon of visa hopping among international students in Australia, discussing its implications on the migration system and labour market, among other aspects. The guests from E61 Institute, Sylvia Griselda and Harshit Shah, share their research findings on the increasing end of visa hopping, the characteristics of visa hoppers, and the potentialimpact on Australia's skilled immigration landscape.Keywords:Silvia Griselda, Harshit Shah, E61 Institute, Australian immigration, visa hopping, skilled...
2025-03-0337 minMade in Migration#12 | From Scotland to Success: Joseph Healy's JourneyGuest: Joseph HealyDate of recording: 9 January 2025Summary:In our first episode for 2025, Joseph Healy, co-founder of Judo Bank, shares his journey from Scotland to Australia, discussing his early life, the transition from sports to banking,and the cultural adaptation he experienced upon moving. He reflects on his extensive banking career and the motivations behind founding Judo Bank, emphasising the importance of resilience, teamwork, and a commitment to serving the community. Joseph's insights into entrepreneurship and the challenges faced in building a new bank provide valuable lessons for aspiring business leaders. In this...
2025-02-1751 minMade in MigrationSeason's End: Reflecting, Recharging, and Looking Ahead to 2025End of year message:
As the year winds down and the holiday season begins, we wanted to take a moment to reflect and share our gratitude with you, our incredible listeners.
It’s been an amazing journey this season. We've had insightful conversations, shared thought-provoking stories, and heard from inspiring guests who have enriched our understanding of migration and its impact on so many lives. None of this would have been possible without your support and engagement.
As the holiday season approaches, we hope you take this time to relax, recharge, and spend qu...
2024-12-3001 minMade in Migration#11 | Dr. Norman Swan's Journey: From Scotland to AustraliaGuest: Dr. Norman Swan
Date of recording: 11 December 2024
Summary:
In this episode, Dr. Norman Swan shares his insights on parenting, child development, and his personal migration journey from Scotland to Australia. He discusses the challenges of modern parenting, the importance of emotional regulation in children, and the impact of screen time on development, which feature in his most recent book, ‘So You Want to Know What's Good for Your Kids?’. Dr. Swan reflects on his experiences as a migrant and the evolving landscape of Australian society, emphasising the need for community support and unde...
2024-12-2340 minMade in Migration#10 | ‘Put the people first, not the goods’ | A discussion about relocation with Sue PemberGuest: Sue Pember
Date of recording: 7 October2024
Summary:
In this episode, Sue Pember, Founder and Managing Director of Aussie OS, shares her journey from a corporate job to establishing a successful relocation services business in Australia. She discusses the unique challenges and needs of migrants, the importance of
tailored services, and how Aussie OS supports clients in adjusting to new cultures and environments. The conversation also touches on the impact of remote work on relocation, trends in global mobility, and the future plans for Aussie OS. Sue emphasises the importance of putting people...
2024-10-2853 minMade in Migration#9 | Determinants of migrant success | Professor Robert BreunigGuest: Professor Robert Breunig
Date of recording: 9 September 2024
Summary:
In this episode, Professor Robert Bruenig discusses the multifaceted impacts of migration on Australia, including
economic benefits, labour market dynamics, and the importance of skilled migration more broadly. He shares insights from his research on the determinants of migrant success and the role of temporary migration, while also addressing challenges such as housing and the need for effective policy frameworks. The conversation highlights the ongoing relevance of migration in shaping Australia's future and the importance of maintaining a balanced approach to migration policy.
2024-10-1444 minMade in Migration#8 | ‘We really need to embrace migrant workers’ | A conversation with Hari Hara Priya KannanGuest: Hari Hara Priya Kannan
Date of recording: 20 August 2024
Summary:
In this episode, we speak to Hari Hara Priya Kannan, a data scientist specialising in demographics. We discuss Hari's migration journey to Australia, her insights into the wealth of demographic data available, and the significant role that migration plays in Australia's economy. The conversation explores the impact of international students and skilled migrants on Australia’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), the pressures on the housing market, urbanisation trends, and
the need for policies that support regional development. We also touch on the challenges po...
2024-09-3038 minMade in Migration#7 | Mental health and multicultural communities, populism and migration policy | A conversation with Dr. Tanveer AhmedGuest: Dr. Tanveer Ahmed
Date of recording: 20 August 2024
Summary:
In this episode, Psychiatrist Dr. Tanveer Ahmed shares his personal journey as a migrant from Bangladesh to Australia, discussing the challenges and opportunities he faced. He delves into the intersection of mental health and cultural identity, particularly within multicultural communities. Dr. Ahmed also addresses the complexities of migration policy, the rise of populism, and the economic impacts of immigration on various sectors. He emphasises the role of media in shaping public perceptions of migration and concludes with an encouraging message for aspiring migrants to...
2024-09-1645 minMade in Migration#6 | Australia's Pacific Engagement Visa | A conversation with Christopher HoganGuest: Christopher Hogan
Date of recording: 14 August 2024
Summary:
In this episode, Christopher Hogan discusses Australia's new Pacific Engagement Visa (PEV) and its potential implications for migration flows, climate challenges, and regional geopolitics. He highlights the possible motivations behind introducing the PEV, including
demand from Pacific Island countries and strategic interests in the Pacific region. Hogan also explores the concerns of brain drain and the challenges and opportunities presented by Australia's aging population. Additionally, he discusses the role of migration in shaping Australia's demographic landscape and the projected shift of population from Greater Sydney...
2024-09-0241 minMade in Migration#5 | ‘Immigration policy has been unambiguously good for Australia’ | A conversation with Professor Sinclair DavidsonGuest: Professor Sinclair Davidson
Date of recording: 18 June 2024
Summary:
In this episode, Professor Sinclair Davidson discusses his personal migration journey to Australia and the economic benefits of immigration. He emphasises that immigration has been unambiguously good for Australia and explains that there are gains from trade such as increased specialisation and greater prosperity, which attracts migrants to Australia. He also addresses the role of international education in the migration program, the housing affordability issue, and the potential privatisation
of the visa system. Professor Davidson advocates for reducing supply-side barriers to entry in the...
2024-08-1948 minMade in Migration#4 | Embracing Uniqueness: The Key to Success | A conversation with Joanna AbrahamGuest: Joanna Abraham
Date of recording: 15 May 2024
Summary:
In this episode, Joanna Abraham, a lecturer at the College of Law and the president of Victorian Women Lawyers (VWL), shares her journey as a migrant from Singapore to Australia and her passion for championing diversity and human rights. She discusses her childhood in Singapore, various challenges, and the multicultural environment she grew up in. Joanna talks about her transition to Australia, her experience in the education system, and her decision to pursue a career in law. She also highlights the importance of giving back t...
2024-08-0544 minMade in Migration#3 | Cutting migration isn’t a panacea for the housing crisis | A conversation with Peter MaresGuest: Peter Mares
Date of recording: 10 June 2024
Summary:
In this episode, Peter Mares, an independent writer, journalist and researcher, discusses migration, housing, and the challenges of Australia's current migration system. He highlights the need for a rational migration policy that considers the long-term impacts on housing and labour productivity. Peter emphasises the importance of government led initiatives to address affordability and supply issues. He also suggests that tax reform can help alleviate concerns about the impact of migration on housing.
Keywords:
Peter Mares, migration, housing, Australia, migration system, rational...
2024-07-2244 minMade in Migration#2 | From India to Australia: A Journey of Resilience and Success | A conversation with Molina AsthanaGuest: Molina Asthana
Date of recording: 26 April 2024
Summary:
In this episode, Molina Asthana, an accomplished lawyer and community leader, shares her journey from India to Australia and her involvement in various organisations. She discusses her upbringing in a family of lawyers and the influence of her grandfather, a respected judge in India. Molina talks about her experience in the legal profession, including the challenges she faced as a migrant and the importance of diversity in the workplace. She also highlights her passion for sports and her efforts to promote diversity and inclusion in...
2024-07-0841 minMade in Migration#1 | Why active citizenship matters | A conversation with Professor Kim RubensteinGuest: Professor Kim Rubenstein
Date of recording: 20 May 2024
Summary:
In this inaugural episode, Professor Kim Rubinstein discusses the historic evolution of Australian citizenship, the concept of active citizenship, and the issues surrounding indefinite detention of non-citizens. She highlights the need for a more inclusive and nuanced
understanding of citizenship. Professor Rubinstein also touches on her own experience as an independent candidate in the 2022 Australian federal election
and the importance of active citizenship in shaping public policy.
Short biography of Professor Kim Rubenstein:
Professor Rubenstein, who is one of Australia’s...
2024-06-2442 minMade in MigrationWelcome to Made in Migration***Disclaimer: This podcast is produced by LawGration, and is intended for education and entertainment purposes only. All content is current at the time of publication and subject to change without prior notice. While LawGration is an Incorporated Legal Practice, we are not aware of your personal circumstances, needs or goals, and information contained in this podcast should not be construed as legal, immigration or other advice. Before acting on any information in this podcast, you should always query whether that information is relevant to your circumstances and consult an Australian immigration lawyer or registered migration agent.
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