One Nation Proposes Net-Negative Migration to Cut 750,000 Visas

One Nation leader Pauline Hanson unveiled a migration policy proposing to reduce Australia's temporary migrant population by more than 750,000 people over three years. The plan seeks to achieve net-negative migration during a reset period before establishing a permanent annual cap of 130,000 arrivals. Key measures include capping international student visas at approximately one-third of current levels, eliminating secondary visas for family members of skilled workers and students, and implementing a lifetime ban for visa overstayers.

Hanson argued that mass migration has degraded living standards and strained healthcare and housing infrastructure, stating that "young Australians are being locked out of home ownership." The proposal also includes a three-month deadline for unlawful non-citizens to depart voluntarily or face aggressive enforcement.

The plan drew sharp criticism from the Australian Labor Party and the Liberal Party. Environment Minister Murray Watt warned the policy would "kill the Australian economy," particularly in regional areas. Health Minister Mark Butler and Industry Minister Tim Ayres cautioned that the cuts would devastate the health, aged care, and construction sectors. Deputy Liberal leader Jane Hume and Coalition spokesman Jonathon Duniam criticized the lack of economic modeling, with Hume suggesting the shock could trigger a recession.

Industry bodies also voiced opposition. The National Farmers Federation warned the cuts would threaten food security, while the International Education Association of Australia stated the plan would decimate public universities. Former immigration official Abul Rizvi estimated that implementation would cost billions of dollars in staffing and detention costs.