Anne Ruston (SA, Liberal Party, Minister for Families and Social Services) Share this | Hansard source

As you rightly point out—and I think Senator Wong raised the matter in her remarks on Senator Cormann's ministerial statement—yes, I do have the power to make changes to various cohorts, and this includes visa categories, should the need arise. At the moment we are obviously monitoring very closely the impact of the coronavirus as it continues to have an impact across the whole of the Australian economy. We are responding, and I think we are responding very quickly and appropriately. As I mentioned in response to the concerns that were raised about visa holders in Australia who have work rights, the ability for them to access their superannuation gives them the immediate opportunity to get access to finance to support themselves. So in response to your direct question: I do have those powers; I will continue to monitor the situation, along with my colleagues; and, should the need arise, those powers will be enacted.