- Gold Rush: The discovery of gold in Victoria attracted large numbers of fortune seekers from China, especially from the Guangdong Province. Between 1851 and 1861, an estimated 40,000 Chinese immigrants arrived in Australia, making them the largest non-European group in the country at that time.
- Economic Opportunities: Following the gold rush, many Chinese immigrants saw opportunities in other sectors such as agriculture, mining, and trade. They often worked in low-paying and labor-intensive jobs, establishing businesses, and contributing to Australia's economic development.
- Persecution and Discrimination: In the late 19th century, the White Australia Policy, which favored non-European migration, led to discriminatory practices against Chinese immigrants. Despite these challenges, many Chinese stayed and formed communities, especially in urban areas such as Melbourne and Sydney.
- Family Reunification: Over the years, family reunification became a significant factor in Chinese migration to Australia. Chinese migrants who had settled in Australia would often sponsor family members to come over and join them, thus helping to grow the Chinese population in the country.
In recent decades, Chinese migration to Australia has continued due to a variety of reasons including education, business, and skilled work opportunities, as well as family ties and cultural diversity. Today, Chinese-Australians make up one of the largest ethnic groups in Australia, with significant contributions to society in areas such as business, academia, and the arts.