Chris Evans (WA, Australian Labor Party, Leader of the Government in the Senate) Share this | Hansard source

As I said, I am seeking to have the Joint Standing Committee on Migration inquire into the immigration treatment of people with disabilities. I have also sought to encourage state and territory leaders to support an amendment to the migration regulations that will allow for a possible waiver of the health requirement for permanent visa applicants in areas of demonstrated need. If the states and territories agree, a waiver will be available for onshore applicants and their dependents who do not meet the health requirement. The regulations will enable the department to waive the health requirement after seeking input from the states and territories. The regulations have been drafted and require the agreement of the states and territories because there are state related costs such as special educational needs, assisted accommodation and community care. I urge the states and territories to sign up to this agreement because that will assist other families who may be in a similar situation to the Moellers.