Albanese and Taylor explore possibility of deal on migration reforms
The discussions between the two leaders reflect a desire by both sides to reduce the heat around the migration issue, which is being fuelled by One Nation.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Opposition leader Angus Taylor have held two meetings this week to discuss potential reforms to the Australian migration system. The government aims to reduce the number of migrants from around 300,000 to 225,000 by the 2027-28 budget, while the opposition seeks to cut immigration to under 170,000.
The talks come amid pressure from the One Nation party to make significant changes to the migration policy. Proposed measures include curbing "visa-hopping", restricting visas for students, working holiday makers and temporary workers, and reducing the use of asylum claims to extend stays. However, views differ on whether a deal will be reached.
Opposition leader Taylor expressed disappointment on Thursday, stating that the government is not meeting its demands. If an agreement is reached, it would follow bipartisan deals on gambling reform and media bargaining with digital platforms. Despite any deal, the opposition remains opposed to the desired level of immigration and will continue to advocate for measures that cannot be agreed upon.
South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskas cautioned against a "political race to the bottom" in migration numbers reduction, emphasizing the importance of preserving the strong migration program for the country's economic future.
Written by urgent.news from The Conversation AU's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
