British expatriates in Perth's northern suburbs are sharply divided over the upcoming UK referendum on European Union membership, with immigration concerns driving strong support for a Brexit among some residents. Australia hosts the largest number of UK expats globally, about 1.2 million, with a high concentration in suburbs like Jindalie, where 43% of residents are British-born, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics.
Lynda, a newsagency owner who asked not to use her family name, voted to leave the EU, citing the need for the UK to 'regain control' of its borders. 'England just cannot cope with the amount of people coming in,' she said, pointing to strain on the health service and infrastructure. Ernie Edwards, 88, originally from Basingstoke, expressed strong anti-immigrant views, stating, 'I just don't want to be associated with all those people. England's not the same as it was.'
Other expats echoed similar sentiments. Butler resident Jackie Lamburn argued that immigrants are 'letting them live on benefits straight away without working,' adding, 'if you want a free ride come to England.' Stuart and Eileen Perkins, retirees in Mindarie, emphasized they are self-sufficient and do not cost Australian taxpayers, contrasting themselves with immigrants in the UK who they say have not 'paid into the system.'
However, not all expats support leaving the EU. Catherine, a Scot who moved to Australia 40 years ago, warned of a 'fear campaign fuelled by the immigration issue' and expressed concern that the UK would be shut out of European markets. Hairdresser Jenny Waller from Liverpool worried about isolation, while pub manager Rachael Wylie argued that leaving would 'isolate themselves.'
Stuart Perkins acknowledged potential economic downturn but predicted a swift recovery, citing Switzerland as a model. UK nationals in Australia could vote via postal or proxy ballot in the referendum.
