Morrison government set to slash migration levels by 30 thousand

The federal government is set to slash Australia's annual migration intake as Prime Minister Scott Morrison denies concerns about congestion are driven by racism.

Immigration Minister David Coleman with Australian PM Scott Morisson. Source: AAP

The number of permanent migrants accepted into Australia each year is expected to be capped at 160,000, 30,000 fewer than previous targets.

 Cabinet has authorised the changes, which would slash the targeted annual intake of permanent migrants by up to 30,000, The Australian reports.

It's believed the Prime Minister has held off on announcing the plan in the wake of the Christchurch attacks.

Since the far-right terrorist attack that killed 50 people, some conservative politicians have been accused by Muslim leaders and the Greens, of dog-whistling and fanning fears about refugees and migrants.

Speaking in Adelaide on Tuesday, Scott Morrison said managing population growth is a practical challenge and has nothing to do with issues arising out of the far-right terrorist attack.

"It shouldn't be hijacked by other debates about race or about tolerance or these other issues.