What Are The Factors That Contribute To Australia's Changing Identity

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When the Second World War ended in 1945, Australia actively sought immigrants to rapidly increase the small population. As a result, from 1945 to 1975 Australia's population almost doubled to 13 million. Australia did not only experience a drastic change in population but also social, cultural and economic factors assisted in the changing identity of the country. An important event which contributed to the change was the Snowy Mountain Scheme (SMS) which began in 1949. A key factor in the changing identity of Australia were the social developments which was not only the population change. Most non-white refugees left voluntarily at the end of WWII to settle in Australia. Much protest was aroused due to Arthur Calwell’s plan to expel them. Minister Holt's decision in 1949…show more content…
The involvement of migrants in popular culture attracted more talented, ambitious and dynamic people to enhance the overall image of the country. This has continued into the modern day culture including sports. For example, the players of the Australian National Football Team - the Socceroos – have come from a diverse range of backgrounds, including Lebanese, Italian, German, Croatian and Anglo-Saxon. Migration has transformed the religious profile of Australia significantly. Before the World Wars, Australian society was grouped mainly into Christian denominations but migration has introduced many new religions into the culture. They brought with them new ideas, customs and cuisines, changing the Anglo-Saxon basis of Australian society which is evident to this day. Two-thirds of the workers of the SMS were immigrants from over 40 countries around the world. The Scheme has become a symbol of the alliance between its workers. Therefore, the revolution of all aspects of culture has assisted in the changing identity of

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