Border security
People-smuggling boat carrying Chinese stopped en route to Australia
The group was discovered near the city of Kupang, and believed to be heading to Australia.
- by Zach Hope and Karuni Rompies
Latest
Albanese, Paterson trade blows on border protection after arrival from ‘unknown vessel’ located in remote WA
A man has been found in remote Western Australia after going missing following his arrival via an unknown vessel.
- by Roy Ward, Zach Hope and James Massola
Updated
National
‘Unknown vessel’ lands in WA, search for missing man who arrived with group
A search was under way on Saturday for a man who police say was believed to have arrived with a group of people on Friday.
- by Alex Crowe
An Iranian man says he fears harm if sent home. The government says it’s not enough
A person in immigration detention cannot be released just because they fear persecution in their birth country, the federal government will argue in a High Court challenge.
- by Angus Thompson
Exclusive
Immigration
Labor MPs raise community fears over deportation bill
Party sources say Bennelong MP Jerome Laxale questioned the impact of provisions blocking visas from countries who don’t accept the return of their citizens.
- by Angus Thompson
‘Worse than Trump’: Multicultural leaders shocked by immigration proposals
Diaspora communities say they were blindsided by proposed laws that could ban foreigners from countries such as Iran and South Sudan from entering Australia.
- by Matthew Knott and Angus Thompson
Updated
For subscribers
Home Affairs boss denies she was ever verbally abused by minister
Stephanie Foster declined to detail discussions, saying the relationship between ministers and staff “depends on being able to have trusted conversations”.
- by James Massola
Block of deportation bill humiliates government as weeks of political pain await
Minister Clare O’Neil was twice pursued by cameras, was asked the same question seven times and the government’s rushed bill was blocked by the opposition and the crossbench on Wednesday.
- by Angus Thompson and Olivia Ireland
Analysis
Immigration
Albanese promised a better way. On borders, he’s doing it Howard’s way
This was a humiliation for a government that wants to project a sense of command and control. Facing political pressure on borders, Labor threw good process overboard.
- by David Crowe
Exclusive
High Court of Australia
Labor blindsided after detainee documents tabled
One of the nation’s most powerful public servants blindsided her ministers by releasing the criminal records of former detainees after the landmark High Court decision.
- by James Massola and Nick McKenzie
Exclusive
Immigration
No detention if owed protection: New front in High Court fight
Convicted in absentia on terrorism offences in Lebanon, one detainee is arguing Australia can’t owe him protection and lock him up indefinitely.
- by Angus Thompson