Michaelia Cash (WA, Liberal Party, Deputy Leader of the Government in the Senate) Share this | Hansard source

Senator Sterle, I can provide you with the following information: like all travellers to Australia applicants for an MCV are subject to a range of character and security checking processes and an MCV will not be issued to a person who fails the character test or who is identified as a security risk. I can also provide you with the following information: all crew departing a vessel are required to disembark at an appointed port where there is an Australian Border Force presence. The ABF will conduct an assessment against all vessels. Any risks identified will be treated appropriately. This includes physical checks and other compliance activities. Vessels may request permission to arrive at a non-appointed port without ABF presence. This will only be approved by the ABF if the risk can be managed or the ABF can attend in person. All appointed first ports of entry have facilities to conduct immigration clearance. Vessels are required to enter Australia at an appointed first port of entry where ABF and Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment biosecurity checks can be completed. In circumstances where the ABF or biosecurity grant permission to a vessel to attend a non-appointed port, both agencies will ensure appropriate arrangements or facilities are available to undertake required checks.