Coalition Pushes for Immigration System Focused on 'Australian Values'
The Australian Coalition is actively investigating plans to significantly strengthen the country's immigration system, placing a renewed and sharper focus on ensuring that individuals seeking to move to Australia truly embody core 'Australian values'. This development comes in the wake of public outrage following a neo-Nazi protest in Sydney.
Shadow Minister's Call for Change
Shadow Minister for Home Affairs, Jonno Duniam, has repeatedly suggested this week that the Opposition is seriously considering changes to the existing framework. Appearing on ABC's Afternoon Briefing, the Liberal Senator for Tasmania emphasised what should be prioritised for new arrivals.
"We do need to look at whether people share our values here," Senator Duniam stated, highlighting principles such as religious freedom and a pluralistic society as foundational. He argued that everything possible should be done to uphold these values, mirroring the pledge taken during citizenship ceremonies.
Deportation Case Fuels the Debate
The senator's comments gained further traction after it was confirmed that Matthew Gruter, a South African engineer who attended a neo-Nazi rally, will be deported from Australia. Gruter was one of approximately 60 demonstrators linked to the National Socialist Network who protested outside NSW parliament on November 9.
The group was reported to have shouted Nazi slogans and unfurled a banner with antisemitic text. In response, Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke cancelled Gruter's visa on Monday, stating that visa holders are "guests" who can be told to leave if they show hatred.
Exploring the Policy Options
According to sources, the Coalition is exploring several options to embed this values-focused approach more deeply into the immigration system. One potential path involves strengthening the existing 'Australian Values Statement', which all visa applicants must agree to. This statement commits migrants to principles like individual freedom and the rule of law.
Another possibility, suggested by former immigration department deputy secretary Abul Rizvi, is implementing a 'values assessment' for new migrants, similar to the test for citizenship. However, he cautioned that this could grind the system to a halt due to the immense volume of visas processed, creating significant costs and delays.
Senator Duniam reinforced his position, telling The Sydney Morning Herald that Australia needs people who strengthen its values, not those who seek to divide communities or undermine shared societal principles.
