Leaving the 'lucky country'? Return migration trajectories between Australia and Germany

This thesis investigates the development of migratory processes between Germany and Australia since1952 with a focus on long-term return trajectories. While Australia and Germany serve as reference points in the investigation, the longitudinal approach employed allows for a differentiated exploration of the development and conceptualisations of the phenomenon. The thesis highlights the intersection and interdependency of macro-level socio-political and economic factors and micro-level decision. By focusing on long-term return trajectories and conceptualisations, and using a migrant-centred approach, the thesis illuminates the increase in mobility conceptualisations as one building block in an individual's biography in an increasingly global world.