Submission for Inquiry on Migration Amendment (Strengthening the Character Test) Bill 2018

This submission is in response to the Migration Amendment (Strengthening the Character Test) Bill 2018. The submission raises concerns about the impact of the proposed amendments on young people from refugee and migrant backgrounds, particularly those under 18 years of age. MYAN argues that the Bill’s approach to visa cancellations for young people engaged in criminal behaviour is overly punitive and fails to consider the transitory nature of youth offending. The submission recommends rejecting the Bill in its current form and advocates for a more youth-focused, rehabilitative approach within the existing youth justice system.