New Data Reveals Rejected Visa Applications for Palestinians in Australia.
New statistics released by the Australian government indicate that thousands of Palestinians have had their visa applications denied since the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas war in October.
On Wednesday, Australia’s conservative opposition argued that it is “not prudent” to allow any Palestinians into the country due to national security concerns.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and opposition leader Peter Dutton faced off in Federal Parliament over the issue of visas for Palestinians fleeing the conflict in the Middle East. Dutton stated on Australian television that Palestinians trying to leave Gaza should not be granted entry, citing worries about the adequacy of screening processes to prevent potential terrorist ties among applicants.
In contrast, Albanese expressed confidence in Australia’s vetting and security measures.
The newly released government data reveals that since the Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, more than 7,100 visa applications from Palestinians in Gaza have been rejected by the government in Canberra. During the same period, officials approved 2,922 applications, mostly visitor visas for holders of Palestinian Authority travel documents.
Mike Burgess, head of the Australian Security Intelligence Organization, said in a recent interview that financial or material support for Hamas should lead to a visa denial. However, he clarified that mere “rhetorical” support for Hamas is not sufficient grounds for automatic disqualification.
Despite this, Australia’s center-right opposition insists that any verbal or written support for the militant group should be a reason to deny an entry visa. Shadow Minister for Home Affairs James Paterson stated that strict entry rules are essential for individuals fleeing Gaza.
“I think the government should send a very clear message that no one who supports Hamas is welcome in Australia,” Paterson said, highlighting concerns about rising antisemitism and social cohesion, especially given the recent increase in the terrorism threat level.
Since the Israel-Hamas war began, community groups have reported a rise in antisemitic and Islamophobic incidents in Australia.
Earlier this month, Tony Burke, the new Home Affairs Minister, announced that the government is developing safeguards for Palestinians whose visitor visas expire, assuring that they will not be sent back to Gaza while the conflict continues.
Since the October 7 attacks, Australia has issued over 8,700 visas to Israelis, with about 200 applications denied. Intelligence officials have confirmed that while some visa applicants underwent security screenings, not all were subjected to this process, which was determined by referrals from the Canberra government.