BSL statement on Coalition’s Federal Budget Reply

The Brotherhood of St. Laurence (BSL) is deeply concerned by proposals in the Coalition’s Federal Budget Reply to withdraw social security support from migrants who are not Australian citizens and step back from Australia's Net Zero commitment.

Australia’s strength has always been built on the contribution of people from diverse backgrounds, and BSL believes governments have an important role to play in welcoming, supporting and fostering the integration of all members of our community – regardless of where they are in their citizenship journey.

Many permanent residents and non-Australian citizens already face significant waiting periods before becoming eligible for both citizenship and social security payments. These settings are established by government policy, and for some people, pathways to citizenship are further complicated by restrictions on dual citizenship in their country of origin. Policies that further single out non-citizens risk unfairly impacting people who are already navigating complex systems and barriers.

“Migrants and refugees make an enormous contribution to Australia’s social, cultural and economic life. They enrich communities, pay taxes, fill critical workforce shortages and contribute meaningfully across all sectors of society,” Dr Travers McLeod, BSL Executive Director said today.

“At a time when social cohesion is more important than ever, rhetoric and policies that target migrants and permanent residents and promote fear and racism, along with false stereotypes, are undermining inclusion and belonging within our communities.

“We encourage all political leaders to pursue policies and public conversations that strengthen unity, fairness and social cohesion, and recognise the value and dignity of everyone who calls Australia home.”

Dr McLeod said BSL is also concerned by the Coalition’s proposal to drop Australia’s Net Zero commitments given the consensus across government, business, community and financial regulators on this during the previous Coalition Government.

“This is a retrograde step that would make Australia less competitive over time, and be inconsistent with our international commitments.

“A stronger Australia is one that invests in inclusion, builds cohesion and plans confidently for the future.” Dr McLeod said.