Indians prefer Victoria as the main destination for migration

Figures released by the Australian Immigration and Citizenship Department have revealed that Indians migrating to the country prefer Victoria more than any other state preferred in 2008-09.

The figures show that for the sixth year in a row, India was the main source of migrants to Victoria.

A record 6191 Indian migrants settled in the state, along with tens of thousands of Indian students and temporary workers.

How much the relationship will change as a result of the attacks on Indian students in Melbourne and the Indian media's response remains to be seen. It could reduce population growth and economic growth alike, The Age reports.

The second biggest choice for Indian migrants was New South Wales, where 5547 settled in the year.

The figures further revealed that by mid-2009, India had overtaken China as the main source of foreign students, with 91,440 students, mostly doing vocational courses, while China had 76,417, primarily in universities.