Penny Wong (SA, Australian Labor Party, Minister for Foreign Affairs) Share this | Hansard source

Thanks to Senator Grogan for a very important question because, at a time that the government has been working to bring Australians together, we again see Mr Dutton seeking to inflame tensions and to divide people, and making claims that were not correct in relation to those permanent residents and Australians. Let me be very clear. The Gaza border is controlled by Israeli and Egyptian authorities, who have put tight limits on who can cross. Meeting requirements for a visa does not mean an entitlement to consular assistance; nor does it mean that other authorities will automatically allow people to leave where they are. Gaza border authorities are approving lists submitted by foreign governments, approving foreign nationals and immediate family members, and we are prioritising Australian citizens, permanent residents and immediate family members. And, as Mr Dutton knows, all people who obtain Australian visas are subject to appropriate identity, security and character checks.