Australia's New Migration Act: Targeting Asylum Seekers

0:00In Sydney today, March 10th, the Australian government plans to change the Migration Act to give home affairs Minister Tony Burke new powers to stop groups of temporary visa, holders for mentoring the country. This targets people who might seek asylum amid the Middle East conflict. The bill heads to the House of Representatives on Tuesday, officials say the change lets the Minister delay entire groups of visa holders for up to six months at a time, with renewals possible. It needs approval from the Prime Minister and Foreign Affairs Minister. The goal is to handle sudden shifts overseas that could lead to more asylum claims. This comes right after the government granted humanitarian visas to members of Iran's women soccer team, who face threats back home. The opposition and cross-bench senators got a briefing on the plan. Temporary visas cover things like tourism, study, and business trips. The new rules want to fix spouses, partners, or dependent kids of Australian citizens or permanent residents. Minister Burke returns from meeting the soccer team in Brisbane to introduce the bill.

1:04The government hopes to pass it before Parliament breaks for a week on Thursday. A message from our sponsor supports today's story. Lay back. Press play. Let the pillow do the rest. Sound meets comfort. Go L.I. EastelliePillow.com.