Joyce backs Hanson on deportations, rejects White Australia return
Barnaby Joyce says One Nation doesn't want a return of the White Australia policy but backs Pauline Hanson's call for mass deportations of visa overstayers.
Nationals MP Barnaby Joyce has waded into the controversy surrounding One Nation leader Pauline Hanson, defending her stance on mass deportations while distancing the party from any suggestion of reviving the White Australia policy. Joyce’s comments on Monday follow days of clarification from Hanson and her team after her European trip, which included a podcast with far-right figure Tommy Robinson and a meeting with a UK hard-right party.
Hanson‘s European Trip Sparks Controversy
Pauline Hanson has faced intense scrutiny over her recent travels, which featured an interview with convicted criminal Tommy Robinson, attendance at a Dolce & Gabbana fashion show, and a meeting with mining billionaire Gina Rinehart. During the Robinson podcast, Hanson attributed migration problems to the abolition of the White Australia policy, sparking accusations of racism. When questioned by Channel Seven’s Liam Bartlett about mass deportations, Hanson enthusiastically endorsed the concept, saying “I love it.” One Nation’s website calls for deporting 75,000 illegal migrants.
Joyce Defends One Nation‘s Position
Joyce, appearing on Channel Seven’s Sunrise program, did not shy away from Hanson’s deportation comments. While he avoided the term “mass deportations,” he stated that anyone not entitled to be in Australia “will be put on a plane and sent back.” He suggested enforcement could occur when individuals present for medical or other services. On the White Australia policy, Joyce said One Nation does not support it, but claimed its abolition led to a “chain of events” resulting in some migrants failing to assimilate. Hanson’s daughter and staffer, Lee Hanson, similarly argued her mother was misinterpreted and does not want the policy revived.
Political Reactions and Implications
Labor minister Tanya Plibersek criticized Hanson for saying “anything” and then avoiding accountability. The controversy highlights ongoing tensions over immigration policy in Australia, with One Nation pushing for stringent enforcement. Joyce’s defense signals potential cross-party alignment on deportation rhetoric, though the specifics remain vague. As the debate unfolds, both major parties face pressure to clarify their positions on visa compliance and border control.
The coming weeks are likely to see further political maneuvering as One Nation continues to advocate for tougher immigration measures, while critics warn against divisive language. Joyce’s intervention may embolden other conservatives to back similar policies, but the fallout from Hanson’s comments could test the party’s electoral appeal.
