Kate Lundy (ACT, Australian Labor Party, Minister Assisting for Industry and Innovation) Share this | Hansard source

The government is taking action recommended by the panel of experts. We have agreed in principle to implement all 22 recommendations of the expert panel on asylum seekers. This is how responsible governments develop policy, by listening to the advice of the experts. We know that temporary protection visas did not work in Australia, with the overwhelming majority of people on them ending up in Australia as permanent residents. That is hardly a deterrent. If the coalition is so sure of TPVs, then why did they reject an independent inquiry into their effectiveness?

In relation to children, the first transfer, as I mentioned, has taken place. Prior to transfer, individuals undergo an assessment of their circumstances to confirm that transfer is reasonably practicable. Appropriate arrangements have been put in place for children and families in regional processing centres, and we will have more to say on these arrangements for unaccompanied minors. (Time expired)