Migration Amendment (2026 Measures No. 1) Bill 2026

Stage by Stage

Summaries in reported speech - not a transcript. In date order, both chambers.

1. Wednesday 11 March 2026 · House of Representatives

   Consideration in Detail

   The debate centred on amendments proposed by crossbench members to restrict the executive power to suspend temporary visas during global crises. Independents and Greens argued the bill lacked sufficient safeguards, parliamentary scrutiny, and compensation for affected visa holders, while the government maintained the measures were necessary for migration integrity and that existing safeguards were adequate. The Coalition supported the bill but raised questions regarding its application to previous conflicts. Most crossbench amendments were defeated, though one amendment regarding parliamentary disallowance was passed.

   Outcome: Amendments 1 to 3 were not passed, Amendment 4 was passed, and the bill proceeded.

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2. Wednesday 11 March 2026 · House of Representatives

   Third Reading
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3. Wednesday 11 March 2026 · Senate

   First Reading

   The Senate debated the first reading of the Migration Amendment (2026 Measures No. 1) Bill 2026, which grants the Minister for Home Affairs power to temporarily restrict entry for certain temporary visa holders. Senator Shoebridge opposed the bill, arguing it lacked scrutiny and targeted Iranians with valid visas to prevent onshore asylum claims. Assistant Minister Chisholm supported the bill, citing the need to protect the integrity of the immigration system amid changing overseas risks. The bill was read a first time and approved for consideration during the sitting period.

   Outcome: The bill was read a first time and the motion to consider it during the sitting period was agreed to.

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4. Wednesday 11 March 2026 · Senate

   Second Reading

   The Senate debated the Migration Amendment (2026 Measures No. 1) Bill 2026, which sought to grant the government power to temporarily restrict travel for certain temporary visa holders during international crises. Assistant Minister Anthony Chisholm argued the legislation was necessary to protect the integrity of the migration system and respond rapidly to global shocks, such as conflicts in the Middle East. He outlined that the bill included safeguards, including time limits, parliamentary tabling requirements, and exemptions for family members and humanitarian visa holders. The debate was adjourned without a final vote recorded in the provided transcript.

   Outcome: The resumption of the debate was postponed to a later hour.

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5. Thursday 12 March 2026 · Senate

   In Committee

   The Senate considered the Migration Amendment (2026 Measures No. 1) Bill 2026 at the committee stage. Senator Darmanin supported the legislation, arguing it provided necessary powers to manage temporary visa travel during international conflicts or global disruptions. The debate focused on establishing a legislative framework to protect the integrity of the migration system. No other speakers or amendments were recorded in the provided transcript.

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6. Thursday 12 March 2026 · Senate

   Limitation of Debate

   The Senate considered amendments to the Migration Amendment (2026 Measures No. 1) Bill 2026 during the Committee of the Whole stage. Senator Varun Ghosh moved questions on amendments circulated by the Australian Greens and by Senators David Pocock and Tyrrell. The Greens' amendments sought to enable Resolution of Status visa applications for transitory persons and remove specific subsections. The amendments from Senators Pocock and Tyrrell aimed to restrict ministerial powers, define emergency circumstances, include additional family members, and mandate compensation for visa holders affected by arrival control determinations. All amendments were put to the vote, with the first two failing and the final stage passing.

   Outcome: The amendments on sheets 3696 and 3699 were not passed, the amendments on sheet 3694 were not passed, and the remaining stages of the bill were passed.

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7. Thursday 12 March 2026 · Senate

   Second Reading

   The Senate debated legislation granting the Minister for Home Affairs power to suspend temporary visas for specific groups during international conflicts or significant events. The government and the Liberal opposition supported the bill as a necessary tool for border integrity and national security, particularly regarding potential influxes from conflict zones like Iran. Crossbenchers and the Greens strongly opposed the measure, arguing it lacked sufficient safeguards, targeted Muslim and Arab populations, and contradicted Australia's humanitarian obligations. Several amendments seeking to increase humanitarian intake or condemn the bill's powers were moved but defeated. The bill ultimately passed the second reading.

   Outcome: The bill passed the second reading with 24 votes in favour and 11 against.

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