Australia is preparing to introduce a new law that will make it easier to deport non-citizens to third countries, including the small Pacific nation of Nauru. The law is designed to limit court appeals and speed up removals, particularly for people who have had their visas cancelled due to criminal convictions or character concerns. The opposition Liberal Party has confirmed its support, making the bill’s passage almost certain.
The move comes after Australia signed a fresh deal with Nauru last week, agreeing to resettle hundreds of people who cannot be sent back to their home countries, such as Iran, Myanmar, and Iraq, because of the risk of persecution. Under the agreement, Australia will provide A$400 million upfront to establish a resettlement fund, plus A$70 million annually to cover costs. Nauru’s economy is heavily dependent on Australian support, with more than two-thirds of its revenue last year coming from hosting an offshore asylum processing centre.
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Critics say the law removes key elements of procedural fairness and undermines the rights of vulnerable individuals. They warn that stateless people and refugees could be deported without proper oversight, raising concerns about healthcare and human rights standards in the receiving countries.
Human rights groups, lawyers, and independent lawmakers have strongly condemned the proposed deportation law, arguing it risks turning Nauru and other small states into “dumping grounds” for people Australia does not want. The United Nations has previously criticised Australia’s offshore detention policies, and the new legislation has revived international concerns about the country’s approach to asylum seekers and migration control.
The law follows a 2023 High Court ruling that indefinite immigration detention was unlawful. Around 350 people were released into the community as a result, with many now facing deportation under the new rules. Some lawmakers fear the law could affect far more people, with up to 80,000 non-citizens living in Australia without valid visas. Independent MP Monique Ryan voiced fears that even stateless individuals or those never convicted of crimes could be targeted.
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Legal experts say the speed of the bill’s passage is alarming, with the Law Council of Australia warning that those sent offshore may lack access to vital healthcare and fair treatment. Activists compared the policy to measures introduced under former US President Donald Trump, calling it “absolutely Trump-like.” However, Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke insists the changes are necessary to protect the integrity of Australia’s migration system.
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