In a remarkable act of internal dissent, Coalition Senator Jacinta Nampijinpa Price has publicly condemned her own Liberal Party for what she describes as a 'betrayal of Australian workers' through its migration agreement with India.
The Shadow Indigenous Australians Minister delivered her blistering critique during a recent interview, arguing that the deal prioritises foreign workers over local tradies and apprentices. 'We're meant to be the party of the worker,' Senator Price stated, 'but this agreement sells out Australians seeking skilled employment.'
Direct Challenge to Party Leadership
Senator Price's comments represent a direct challenge to Opposition Leader Peter Dutton and immigration spokesman David Coleman, who have supported the migration pact. The agreement, signed by the previous Morrison government, facilitates easier migration for Indian nationals to work in Australia across 31 professions.
'We should be training our own people first,' Price argued. 'This isn't about being anti-migration—it's about putting Australian workers, especially our young people seeking apprenticeships, at the front of the queue.'
Broader Political Implications
The intervention highlights significant tensions within the Coalition regarding migration policy. Senator Price, who has positioned herself as a champion of conservative values, appears to be staking out ground distinct from her party's leadership on economic nationalism issues.
Political analysts suggest this move could signal Price's ambition to shape the party's direction on migration and economic policy, potentially appealing to the Coalition's base concerned about job competition and migration levels.
Industry and Union Reactions
The migration deal has received mixed responses from industry groups and unions. Some business leaders welcome the access to skilled workers, particularly in sectors experiencing shortages. However, several unions have echoed Senator Price's concerns about potential downward pressure on wages and conditions.
The controversy comes as Australia continues to grapple with balancing skilled migration needs against protecting local employment opportunities, particularly in the post-pandemic recovery phase.
