Australia is also well-positioned to benefit, with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese noting that "intelligence, imagination, and drive will be the forces behind a future made in Australia."

"Diversity is what makes Australia the great nation that we are. To everyone who experiences racism, I stand with you. We belong in Australia."

Supporters argue that with over 208,000 Hindus in New South Wales and more than 684,000 across Australia, the time has come to formally recognise Diwali as a public holiday.

Bhupinderjit Singh Sidhu, 24, had moved to Canada three years ago on a study visa and had recently completed his studies.

The judge found Khalil had “willfully misrepresented material facts” in his application to adjust immigration status and denied his request for a waiver.

Many Australians — including well-established migrants — privately felt immigration levels were too high.

The report found that while only 12 per cent of permanent visa places currently go to offshore skilled entrants, temporary visa holders are contributing significantly to the country’s skill base.

Additionally, authorities in Australia have warned that applicants themselves risk heavy fines and jail time if they knowingly provide false information.

The loss of graduates has fuelled a debate on whether higher education should continue to remain free and without a bonding system to keep graduates at home, at least for a few years after graduation.

Sanjay Sharma, founder of the Indian Australian Multicultural Sports Association (IAMSA) and the Yerrabi District Cricket Club (YDCC), has spent more than a decade building community through sport.