Anger and confusion over Labor's planned refugee cuts
The Albanese government's plans to slash more than 6,000 places from its annual refugee intake have sparked anger and confusion within Labor, and prompted accusations it would amount to an "extraordinary betrayal" of the party's rank and file members.
Labor's proposed cuts to refugee intake have sparked anger and confusion among party members. The Home Affairs minister's office announced a third reduction in refugee places, from 20,000 to 13,750 next financial year. However, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese denied the reports, stating the intake would remain at 20,000. Several Labor MPs expressed surprise at the proposed cuts, which were not discussed in caucus forums.
The prime minister's office confirmed the lower intake is temporary and only funded for four years. However, four Labor MPs insisted the higher intake was enduring and not time-limited. The issue is considered sacred by party members, who previously secured a commitment to maintain the intake at 20,000 per year. Cutting 6,250 places would have little impact on overall migration numbers, according to Refugee Council of Australia's chief executive.
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