Question Time AU

Bill Debate · Second Reading

Migration Amendment (2026 Measures No. 1); Second Reading

House of Representatives · Tuesday 10 March 2026

Official Hansard for this day (APH) · Read this debate on OpenAustralia

At a glance

The debate concerned legislation to allow temporary restrictions on the arrival of certain temporary visa holders during international crises. The government argued the bill was necessary to manage risks to migration system integrity when overseas events might prevent visa holders from departing Australia. The opposition provided in-principle support, noting the measures strengthened system integrity, while criticising the government's broader migration management record. The bill was passed by the House of Representatives.

Outcome

The bill was read a second time, with Mr Wilkie dissenting.

Summary in reported speech - not a transcript. AI-generated, so check the official record before quoting.

How the debate unfolded

Opened the debate

Julian Hill (Bruce) (Australian Labor Party) ALP

Hill argued that the bill enabled the government to respond rapidly to international conflicts or shocks that might prevent temporary visa holders from leaving Australia. Hill stated that without legislative change, the government would need to individually assess visa cancellations, which was inefficient for large-scale events. The bill would allow the Minister for Home Affairs, with agreement from the Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs, to make arrival control determinations for up to six months. Hill emphasised that the power applied only to temporary visas and included safeguards such as exemptions for family members of citizens and humanitarian visa holders. Hill noted that determinations would be tabled in parliament to ensure transparency and accountability.

Opposition response

Ted O'Brien (Shadow Minister for Foreign Affairs) Liberal Fairfax

O'Brien stated that the coalition supported the bill in principle, having received a briefing and draft legislation. O'Brien argued that the measures strengthened the integrity and sustainability of the migration system by allowing temporary restrictions on arrivals when overseas circumstances increased the risk of overstays. O'Brien noted that the determinations were time-limited and subject to reporting requirements. O'Brien criticised the government's overall migration management, arguing that high migration numbers and low standards had placed pressure on housing and public services. O'Brien affirmed that the coalition would support the bill while continuing to hold the government accountable for broader migration settings.