The government has introduced a bill that would grant the immigration minister the authority to compel individuals to facilitate their own deportation. This measure targets non-citizens who have exhausted all legal avenues to remain in Australia.
The bill also empowers the immigration minister to impose travel bans on countries that obstruct deportation efforts. This provision aims to pressure countries like Iran, Iraq, and Zimbabwe, which have been known to refuse involuntary returns. However, the ban would not be automatic and would require a designation by the minister in consultation with the prime minister and foreign minister.
The bill's scope extends to individuals currently in immigration detention, those released from detention after a previous High Court ruling, and a larger group living in the community on Bridging Visa E. This includes the "Medevac" cohort, refugees unable to obtain permanent residency due to government policy.
The government has suggested that the bill would not apply to the Medevac cohort, as their refugee claims are not managed by Australia. However, the department could reassess previous determinations of protection for individuals on Bridging Visa E, potentially leading to their deportation.
The government's motivation for the bill is unclear, with officials reluctant to directly link it to the High Court case involving an Iranian man known as ASF17. The Coalition and Greens have expressed concerns about the bill's lack of clarity and have joined forces to delay its passage until May, allowing for further deliberation.