MEDIA RELEASE
14 April 2026
Australian Values Migration plan
The member for Herbert Phil Thompson OAM MP believes in restoring integrity and public confidence in Australia migrations system. Something that he believes has been lost under the current Labor government.
Today the Coalition announced the first instalment of its comprehensive plan to put Australian values back at the heart of immigration policy.
The plan will strengthen standards, crack down on abuse of the system, and send a clear message that Australia will not tolerate those who do not respect our way of life.
The member for Herbert, Phillip Thompson OAM MP said Australians deserve a migration system that works in their best interests.
“Right now, the system is out of control. Numbers are too high and standards are too low,” Mr Thompson said.
“We need to get back to basics. If we cannot look after our own, why would we be bringing more people in?”
“Our young Australians are being priced out of the housing market. Why should foreigners be competing for the same opportunities? This is about fairness. Australians must come first.”
The Coalition plan includes three key measures; putting Australian values first, cracking down on system abuse and stopping extremist at the door.
Putting Australian Values first
The Coalition will make it a requirement for all visa holders to respect and follow Australian values. Mr Thompson says this is a cornerstone of any successful migration policy, and the Labor Government has dropped the ball.
Visas can be refused or cancelled if people fail to meet these standards, and those who break them risk being removed from the country.
Permanent visas will prioritise people who clearly share and respect Australian values.
Cracking down on system abuse
The Coalition will take stronger action against people who try to exploit Australia’s migration system.
This includes fast-tracking the refusal of claims from safe countries, restoring temporary protection visas, and increasing deportations of people who have no legal right to stay.
Stopping extremists at the door
Screening will be strengthened to prevent dangerous individuals from entering Australia.
This includes stronger background checks, expanded use of social media screening, and closer coordination between agencies like ASIO, the AFP and Border Force.
Mr Thompson said these reforms are just the beginning.
“To protect our way of life and restore living standards, we must reduce migration and raise the bar,” he said.
“Australia is the greatest countries in the world, but we must protect what makes it great. At the moment, we are at risk of losing the Australian values that make this country what it is. The values that I and many Australians fought for.”
Further measures under the Australian Values Migration Plan will be announced in due course.
ENDS