The Albanese Government introduced a 319-page omnibus bill on 15 January that bundles hate-speech offences, tighter gun laws and sweeping migration amendments. Central to the package is an expanded “character test” in the Migration Act, allowing the Home Affairs Minister to cancel or refuse a visa if the holder has promoted, incited or supported hatred or extremist violence—even without a criminal conviction. (visahq.com)
Business-immigration advisers say the lower evidence threshold could expose posted workers, international students and long-term residents to visa cancellation based on online activity or group associations. Global-mobility teams are urged to broaden pre-assignment social-media screenings and update employee codes of conduct.
Companies looking for practical help amid these shifting requirements can tap VisaHQ’s Australia desk, which provides rapid eligibility checks, proactive compliance strategies and emergency re-application support should a visa be challenged. More information is available at https://www.visahq.com/australia/.
![Omnibus Bill Expands Minister’s Power to Cancel Visas for Hate Speech and Extremism]()
The bill also criminalises intentional hate speech with penalties of up to five years’ imprisonment, introduces a national gun buy-back, and mandates continuous background checks shared across jurisdictions. While Jewish and multicultural organisations applauded the reforms, civil-liberties groups and the opposition have flagged due-process concerns.
If passed, the migration changes would take effect the day after royal assent. Corporations should prepare rapid-response protocols for assignees whose visas are questioned, including access to legal counsel and immediate travel-status audits.
The legislation underscores Canberra’s willingness to weaponise migration controls for social-policy objectives—a trend mobility practitioners must monitor closely.
Business-immigration advisers say the lower evidence threshold could expose posted workers, international students and long-term residents to visa cancellation based on online activity or group associations. Global-mobility teams are urged to broaden pre-assignment social-media screenings and update employee codes of conduct.
Companies looking for practical help amid these shifting requirements can tap VisaHQ’s Australia desk, which provides rapid eligibility checks, proactive compliance strategies and emergency re-application support should a visa be challenged. More information is available at https://www.visahq.com/australia/.
The bill also criminalises intentional hate speech with penalties of up to five years’ imprisonment, introduces a national gun buy-back, and mandates continuous background checks shared across jurisdictions. While Jewish and multicultural organisations applauded the reforms, civil-liberties groups and the opposition have flagged due-process concerns.
If passed, the migration changes would take effect the day after royal assent. Corporations should prepare rapid-response protocols for assignees whose visas are questioned, including access to legal counsel and immediate travel-status audits.
The legislation underscores Canberra’s willingness to weaponise migration controls for social-policy objectives—a trend mobility practitioners must monitor closely.
