In Reply to: why? posted by anada on Tuesday, 18. August 2009 at 12:49 Bali Time:
there is a perceived high risk by Australia that the tourist will not leave. Most countries with poor economies have these type of restrictions put upon them.
On the up side, it is much easier for an Indoneisan to live and work in Australia if they qualify for permanent residence (e.g. married to an Australian citizen or resident). Once on a PR you get full benefits like Medicare, Social Security, etc. etc.
Not the case the other way around - i.e. if you are married to an Indonesian it is quite hard to live, and particularly work, in Indonesia.