Peter Dutton (Dickson, Liberal Party, Minister for Home Affairs) Share this | Hansard source

I met Stephanie last night and I presented her with her award. I met Scott. It was an incredible moment. You moved many people at the event last night. It really is unimaginable, as both the Prime Minister and the Leader of the Opposition have pointed out, but your true inner strength and the way in which you responded is a great credit to you. The recall of the story and your contribution to those gathered last night, I think it is true to say, left a very lasting impression on everybody in that audience. I too join in congratulating you. Thank you.

Honourable members: Hear, hear!

In relation to the honourable member's question I have said to this House—and outside of this House before—that I look at each case on its merit. The honourable member made his own judgement in relation to a case that he presented to me, asking me to consider the matter. He was rallying for a convicted murderer, for somebody who had a very long criminal history. He was saying to me that he would like to see a better outcome for that individual. We can go to the member for Watson, who was advocating for a hate preacher. I can point out different members opposite who have come to me over a long period of time, asking me to act. I'll tell you what I've done. I've cancelled 3,700 visas of criminals in this country—people who would have gone on to commit offences against Australians.

Mr Brian Mitchell interjecting—

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