The US compared to Australian immigration in 1937 was that the US refused Jews aboard the ship St. Louis to disembark. Australia did not refuse a different ship of Jewish refugees. It was one ship but it was something in comparison. War immigrants didn't generaly resume until 1947.

I did not realize accent is of such importance. Then I realized that certain American southern accents make my skin crawl. I have the prejudice bug as well, from a Yankee point of view! English accents are usually pleasant to my ear.
I think stereotypes hide in our psyche in plain view no matter how we try to be inclusive. Queen Elizabeth's dad had a bit of trouble with his Aussie speech coach in 'The King's Speech' but became long-time friends.

Hey! Dick Van Dyke is still dancing and is from my hometown. He went to high school with my mom. :^/