Tony Burke’s detention inaction

Tony Burke surrounded by supporters on the night of the 2025 Federal Election.

The Albanese government’s refusal to detain dangerous criminals, citing legal barriers, is a shameful abdication of responsibility.

Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke’s claim that the NZYQ cohort – former immigration detainees with alleged serious criminal convictions – cannot be held under preventative detention laws is not just weak, it is my view that it also endangers Australian citizens.

In a new low, this decision prioritises legal technicalities over public safety, exposing a government unfit to protect its citizens.

In the Unfiltered newsletter, Alexandra Marshall wrote:

Speaking of trouble, Michael de Percy took aim at Tony Burke for his apparent weakness regarding foreign criminals released into the Australian community. 

My latest in The Spectator Australia, Tony Burke’s detention inaction.

The Albanese government’s refusal to detain dangerous criminals, citing legal barriers, is a shameful abdication of responsibility.

Burke’s excuse that legal thresholds are too high is unacceptable. If the law is inadequate, they must amend it.https://t.co/0bmtG38ZmO

— The Spectator Australia (@SpectatorOz) June 29, 2025