The Australian government has introduced legislation to facilitate the deportation of non-citizens. The bill has passed the House of Representatives with Coalition support and is expected to pass the Senate by tomorrow.
The legislation stems from a High Court case that could potentially release immigration detainees into the community. The government has faced pressure since the release of nearly 150 detainees following a previous High Court ruling.
The bill has two components. The first targets current immigration detainees and those in the community on bridging visas with no prospect of obtaining a permanent visa. The government could direct these individuals to apply for passports from their home countries, potentially circumventing countries that do not accept involuntary returns. Non-compliance would result in a mandatory jail term.
The second component allows the immigration minister to designate countries that do not accept involuntary returns. Visa applications from these countries would be suspended, with exceptions for family members of Australian residents and refugee resettlement programs. The minister must consult with the prime minister and foreign minister before making such designations.