Michaelia Cash (WA, Liberal Party, Deputy Leader of the Government in the Senate) Share this | Hansard source

I will reiterate what the relevant minister has reiterated, what previous ministers have reiterated and what the Prime Minister has reiterated. We have made it clear that, under our government, if you arrive here illegally you will not be permanently resettled here. We need to be very clear: today's decision by the minister for immigration does not create a fresh pathway to a visa. The government's position on border protection has not changed. Anyone who arrives in Australia illegally by boat will not be resettled permanently. Anyone who is not found to be owed protection—and, Senator McKim, the parents have, through numerous courts now, not been found to be owed protection now—is expected to leave Australia. The result of what you want us to do is a clear signal to the people smugglers.