SENATOR KRISTINA KENEALLY
DEPUTY LABOR LEADER IN THE SENATE
SHADOW MINISTER FOR HOME AFFAIRS
SHADOW MINISTER FOR IMMIGRATION AND CITIZENSHIP
SENATOR FOR NEW SOUTH WALES
ANDREW GILES MP
SHADOW MINISTER FOR MULTICULTURAL AFFAIRS
SHADOW MINISTER ASSISTING FOR IMMIGRATION AND CITIZENSHIP
MEMBER FOR SCULLIN
Australians will welcome the news today that the Minister for Immigration Alex Hawke is personally intervening in the Biloela family's case and using his ministerial discretion to grant bridging visas for Nades, Priya and Kopika Murugappan.
Minister Hawke's decision is the next step in the process that could see the family return to Biloela, a town that loves them and wants them home.
Importantly, the Minister's decision means Nades, Priya and Kopika are no longer in detention and are free to work, access services and support, and travel without significant restriction.
It is disappointing that the Minister declined to use his personal discretionary power to grant a bridging visa to Tharunicaa. This little 4 year old girl, born in Australia, remains in immigration detention in the community.
While it is essential that Tharni continues to receive the medical treatment she needs following her serious illnesses, including pneumonia and sepsis, we understand the family is hopeful this is medical treatment the government allows her to access in Queensland.
Many Australians will be concerned that the Minister has only granted the three family members a three month bridging visa, and we share those concerns. We are hopeful that the Minister has set a three month period with a view to allow him the time required to consider the materials before him and make a decision to return to their home in Biloela.