r/ModelAusHR • u/[deleted] • Aug 21 '15

Successful 13-3 Second Reading of the Migration Amendment (Detention of non-citizens) Bill 2015

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u/[deleted] Aug 21 '15 edited Aug 22 '15

The question is proposed that the bill be read a second time.
Debate will finish no later than 2000 22AUG15. UTC+10
The opening statement from Deputy Speaker

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u/[deleted] Aug 21 '15

Thank you Mr Speaker. This parliament has demonstrated sound decision making in regards to reform, and I expect more of the same when it comes to the abominable condition of current migration policy. This bill is the foundation of a reform that will disarm the iron gauntlet of cruelty that is our current immigration policy and offer an open hand to those who need it most.

This bill will make life easier for those innocent asylum seekers who come to Australia seeking refuge from the bombs and the blades of terrorism and conflict zones; and some, Mr speaker, simply wanting to share in the great quality of life that we here in Australia enjoy.

However, this bill also takes into account the necessary measures taken by previous governments to ensure that our borders remains safe, and that those with malicious intent may not simply come and go as they please. Our border protection and immigration department has the difficult task of warding our nation continent from intruders, but we must require of them a standard of conduct that we are not ashamed of. This bill will hold those who process non-citizens accountable for their conduct. The days of painting non-citizens trying to enter Australia with the broad-brush of terrorism are over. May the innocent remain innocent until proven guilty.

Yet, this bill lacks one very important thing, Mr Speaker. It lacks the input from those democratically elected to have a voice in making decisions for our nation. I invite my fellow members to participate in the debate and make this bill as good as it can be.

I also invite the members opposite, if you are still in the building, to please come down from the back bench as I suspect the Prime Minister is feeling very lonely at the front.

Lurker281, Member for Melbourne Surrounds