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

As Senator Keneally would know, or should know, the Australian government—that is, governments of either persuasion—does not comment on individual cases. What I would say is that all non-citizens entering Australia must meet and continue to meet the character requirements set out in the Migration Act 1958. There are strong provisions under the act to refuse or cancel a visa where a person is found not to be of good character. Any application lodged with the department about visitors who may hold controversial views will be considered, balancing any risk they may pose with Australia's well-established freedom of speech and freedom of beliefs. All visitors to Australia are expected to obey Australian laws and satisfy the character requirements of the Migration Act, but I do make the point again that, consistent with the appropriate practices of governments of both political persuasions, we do not comment on individual cases.