Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan has launched a scathing attack on the federal Coalition's newly announced hardline immigration policy, describing it as an "extreme race-based migration policy that's straight out of the Donald Trump playbook." During a press conference, Allan accused the Coalition of fostering division and weakness in pursuit of political gains.
Allan's Strong Condemnation of Coalition Strategy
In her remarks, Allan directly criticised federal Shadow Treasurer Angus Taylor and Victorian Liberal leaders, asserting that they are "too scared of One Nation and are too weak to stand up and fight for what matters." She emphasised that unity and cohesion within Victoria and Australia are paramount, values she believes the Coalition's policy undermines.
Policy Details and Alleged Exclusions
Allan highlighted specific aspects of the Coalition's plan, which she claims would exclude individuals and families from countries such as China, Vietnam, Muslim nations, and Lebanon. She argued that this approach does not align with Australian or Victorian principles, stating, "This is not what standing for Australia and standing for Victoria looks like."
Accusations of Political Weakness
The premier went further, accusing the Liberal Party of chasing One Nation votes by moving "further and further to the extreme." She labelled this strategy as a sign of weakness, saying the party is "too weak to stand up and fight for what's right and what's important." Allan specifically called out their inability to confront Pauline Hanson and One Nation, framing the immigration policy as a capitulation to extremist views.
Overall, Allan's comments reflect a broader political clash over immigration, with her framing the Coalition's stance as divisive and inspired by international populist figures like Donald Trump.
