15th Aug 2024, 9:28 AM – Representatives Motions - National Security - A motion on visas for people fleeing from Gaza

The majority voted in favour of a motion:

That the debate be adjourned.

What was the debate about?

The debate was on the subject of Opposition Leader and Dickson MP Peter Dutton's motion:

That so much of the standing and sessional orders be suspended as would prevent the Leader of the Opposition from moving the following motion—

That this House:

(1) notes that the Albanese Government has so far granted almost 3,000 visitor visas to individuals from the Gaza warzone;

(2) notes that in question time yesterday, the Prime Minister claimed that his government has done this under 'exactly the same arrangements as previous offshore refugee and humanitarian visa grants';

(3) notes that this is not true;

(4) notes that for the Syrian refugee intake, rigorous security checks were conducted prior to arrival in Australia at a number of key visa processing points, this included the collection and checking of biometric data against Australia's security agencies and those of our international partners, these checks were supplemented by interview with Australian departmental officers, where claims and identity were assessed;

(5) notes that these measures have not been undertaken under the Albanese government's change of policy to grant visitor visas, including to people who have expressed sympathy for the Hamas terrorist organisation; and

(6) therefore requires the Prime Minister immediately attend the chamber and explain why he misled this House.

Standing and sessional orders are the usual rules of parliament.