Fears migration changes may fuel coercive control, visa-related abuse
A crackdown on overstayers is part of both federal government and opposition migration plans. But advocates against domestic and family violence warn it may worsen the situation for many.
Advocates for domestic violence victim-survivors warn that tighter migration policies will empower abusers who exploit Australia's immigration system. The overhaul of the immigration system, proposed by the federal government and opposition parties, mirrors pre-2015 policies that detained those who overstayed their visas. Immigration lawyer Ann Emmanuel stated that more than 80% of her clients faced immigration-related domestic and family violence.
Perpetrators can control visa applications, passports, and interactions with Home Affairs, putting survivors at risk of detention despite their innocence. Immigration Minister Tony Burke announced a return to pre-2015 policies, and the Coalition plans to reinstate intelligence functions in Home Affairs to target overstayers. Migrant women expressed concern over these announcements, as abusers have already weaponized deportation and detention threats.
University of Melbourne Professor Marie Segrave noted that politicians overlook factors leading women to overstay their visas, strengthening perpetrators' leverage. A home affairs spokesperson emphasized that domestic and family violence is unacceptable and the department supports victims. The Coalition's policy targets those without lawful residency to prevent visa misuse.
Immigration lawyer Ann Emmanuel urged the government to reconsider and focus on system reform. The National Advocacy Group on Women on Temporary Visas Experiencing Violence recommended introducing a new three-year visa to protect survivors, providing them with work, study, and social security access while addressing ongoing court cases.
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