- On November 26, 2025, the Senate proceedings included significant discussions regarding immigration within the context of the Plebiscite (Future Migration Level) Bill 2018. Senator Malarndirri McCarthy from the Labor Party introduced the bill for consideration, aiming to create a plebiscite to evaluate and decide on future migration levels (Page 1).
- Senator Malcolm Roberts (PHON) advocated for the bill, citing concerns over “mass migration” leading to housing pressures across Australia. He compared the need for public input on immigration levels to the previous plebiscite for same-sex marriage (Page 1). Roberts raised alarm over illegal immigration and its implications on Australian society (Page 2).
- In contrast, Senator Paul Scarr (LP) opposed the bill, arguing that immigration is a complex issue unsuitable for a plebiscite and contending that the current immigration rate was excessively high. He stated that the coalition is actively developing policies to address these immigration challenges (Page 3).
- Senator Sean Bell (PHON) reiterated calls for immigration limits, highlighting issues like housing affordability and community suffering from what he termed unchecked immigration (Pages 5-6).
- Senator Fatima Payman (AV) criticized the One Nation bill, characterizing it as a superficial “stunt” lacking real legislative impact. She stressed the importance of a compassionate approach to immigration and the necessity of responsible dialogue on the subject (Pages 7-8).
- The ongoing discussions reflected a broader concern among senators about the impact of immigration policies on local communities, housing markets, and overall governance. Senator David Pocock (Independent) called for greater scrutiny on policies that might infringe on human rights (Pages 20-21), indicating a desire for a balanced approach amid rising legislative tensions.
- Moreover, Senator Tammy Tyrrell (IND, Tasmania) highlighted the significant migration issues regarding its intersection with housing and social policy, urging for immediate attention from the government on these critical matters (Page 60).
- Towards the end of the proceedings, Senator Roberts linked the urgency of addressing housing crises to the implications of mass migration, which he argued exacerbated existing challenges in the real estate sector (Page 96). Conversely, Senator Mulholland defended migrants, asserting that they are not to blame for the housing crisis, instead emphasizing the government’s inadequate housing policies (Page 98).
- These discussions underscored a growing acknowledgment among parliamentarians of the intricate relationship between immigration, social infrastructure, and economic realities facing Australian citizens.
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