Opposition Leader Angus Taylor has denied knowledge of an immigration policy developed under former Coalition leader Sussan Ley that reportedly sought to ban people from terror-declared areas, including parts of Gaza, Somalia and the Philippines. Speaking on ABC's 7.30 program, Mr Taylor said the document, which he claimed not to have seen, had no validity as it did not go through shadow cabinet or the leadership and was not seen by relevant immigration shadows.
Mr Taylor's denial follows similar statements from Senator Jonno Duniam and Senator Paul Scarr, who held home affairs and immigration portfolios under Ms Ley, both denying any contribution to the plan. The policy was reportedly developed before Ms Ley lost the leadership in a Friday spill motion.
Despite distancing himself from the leaked proposal, Mr Taylor expressed support for some elements, including deporting migrants who do not share Australia's 'core values'. He stated that non-citizens temporarily in the country who clearly do not adopt those values should leave. He also indicated a willingness to work with security agencies to address issues related to violence, citing the Bondi terror attack as a reason for heightened measures.
When asked about specific regions that could be targeted under a new immigration policy, Mr Taylor said it is obvious that some parts of the world are more likely to produce people who bring hate and violence, but this does not necessarily mean shutting the door on those places. He emphasised the need for intelligence agencies to be at the heart of ensuring that incoming migrants are suitable.
On housing, Mr Taylor reiterated the need for more supply to improve accessibility and affordability, but offered no new policies. He pointed to infrastructure investment in his own electorate as a model for increasing housing supply, citing development near the new Western Sydney airport as an example of successful growth driven by government investment.
