Refugee announcement … Immigration Minister Scott Morrison. Source: News Corp Australia
AUSTRALIA’s refugee intake is to be boosted by 7,500 places, following government negotiations with crucial crossbench Senators.
EARLIER: Government brings back temporary protection visas
The increase, to 18,750 over the next four years, will cost $100 million, Scott Morrison said this morning.
The Immigration Minister also revealed the government will provide work rights to 25,000 currently on bridging visas, but it would be contingent on legislation passing the Senate.
His announcement comes on the back of earlier agreements with the Palmer United Party.
The government has already failed twice in reinstating temporary protection visas and has been negotiating with the new Senate since July.
The new measures are designed to win over crossbench support to resurrect temporary prtoection visas in this final week of Parliament for the year.
When asked if he has another alternative if this too is unsuccessful in the Upper House, Mr Morrison said he was on “Plan A”.
The Minister stressed the need for the bill to pass to clear the “legacy case load” of asylum seekers left by Labor.
“The bill passing will mean that people will be processed, that children and families will come out of detention, that our maritime powers will be strengthened … and that the refugee intake will be ultimately increased and people who are waiting for claims to be processed will have work rights.
“That is a very strong package, I am sure even you would agree.”
source: news.com.au
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