Immigration too high: overseas-born voters

More than half of voters believe immigration to Australia over the past decade has been too high, including those born overseas, a new poll shows.

The Essential poll, commissioned by television station SBS, found 60 per cent of overseas-born voters agreed the level of immigration had been excessive over the past 10 years.

That's the same amount as those born in Australia, the poll showed.

Overall, 59 per cent of voters agreed immigration has been too high, while 28 per cent disagreed.

However, almost two thirds believe migrants have overall made a positive contribution to Australian society and 62 per cent think cultural diversity has enriched the lives of Australians.

Just 28 per cent agreed Australia should increase its intake of refugees due to the crisis in Europe and 38 per cent believe accepting refugees is something a wealthy nation like Australia should do.

The poll surveyed 1020 people online from May 12 to 15.