In the late 20th century, major sources of Asian immigration to Australia and New Zealand included Vietnam, China, India, and the Philippines. This shift was driven by several factors: the relaxation of restrictive immigration policies, economic opportunities in Oceania, and geopolitical situations in Asia. For instance, the Vietnam War led to a significant influx of Vietnamese refugees. Australia's and New Zealand's economies offered opportunities for skilled and unskilled workers, attracting many from the Asian continent. This wave of immigration played a crucial role in transforming the demographic and cultural landscapes of both countries, contributing to their multicultural character.

New Zealand's post-war immigration policies were initially similar to Australia's, focusing on attracting primarily British and European immigrants. However, New Zealand's approach was generally more conservative and less aggressive compared to Australia's large-scale schemes like the Ten Pound Poms. From the 1970s onwards, New Zealand diversified its immigration sources more gradually, welcoming immigrants from Pacific islands and, later, Asia. New Zealand's integration policies also tended to be more inclusive, focusing early on the importance of biculturalism, especially in relation to the indigenous Māori population, which set a foundation for later multicultural policies.

The Ten Pound Poms scheme, officially known as the Assisted Passage Migration Scheme, was a major initiative by the Australian government to encourage British immigration after World War II. For a nominal fee of ten pounds, British citizens were offered passage to Australia, with the aim of boosting the population and workforce. This scheme, which ran from 1945 to 1972, brought over a million British migrants to Australia. These immigrants significantly contributed to the post-war economic growth and played a crucial role in shaping the cultural and social landscape of Australia, laying the foundations for its modern multicultural society.

The arrival of immigrants from Asia in the late 20th century had complex impacts on the indigenous populations of Australia and New Zealand. On one hand, it contributed to the dilution of the historically dominant Anglo-Saxon culture, which indirectly supported the indigenous movements for recognition and rights. On the other hand, it added a layer of complexity to the social dynamics, as the indigenous populations had to navigate a multicultural landscape where they were one of many minority groups. In both countries, this period saw a growing awareness and recognition of indigenous rights and cultures, partly influenced by the broader discourse on diversity and multiculturalism brought by Asian immigration.

The White Australia Policy, established in the early 20th century, significantly restricted non-European immigration, shaping Australia's demographic composition. Post-Second World War, this policy began to loosen due to economic and demographic needs, leading to increased non-European immigration. The gradual dismantling of this policy, culminating in its abolition in 1973, marked a pivotal moment in Australia's journey towards multiculturalism. It allowed for a more diverse range of immigrants, particularly from Asian countries, fostering a multicultural society. The policy's abolition reflected and accelerated a societal shift towards greater acceptance and integration of diverse cultures, redefining Australia's national identity.