Mathias Cormann (WA, Liberal Party, Vice-President of the Executive Council) Share this | Hansard source

I reject the premise of the question. I would just point out that, in relation to visa facilitation, the Department of Home Affairs has absolutely no evidence of visas being rubberstamped or of requirements being waived for visa applicants supported by Crown Casino. No waivers to Australia's visa requirements have been provided. Departmental officers apply the same legal criteria to all visa applications in accordance with the Migration Act. There is no discretion for officers to depart from these requirements.

Visa applicants' individual circumstances are assessed against all legal requirements, including in relation to national security, character and health. No-one is exempt from these requirements. In relation to the integrity of Australian Border Force and visa staff, all staff are expected to uphold the highest standards of integrity and professionalism, at all times. A range of controls are in place to prevent, detect and respond to internal fraud, corruption and serious misconduct. The acting secretary is aware of allegations of inappropriate conduct by an ABF officer. It would be inappropriate for me to comment on the matter. (Time expired)