yup, just saw his video as well and I receive an email from him.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Dear ----
Thank you again for emailing me about how Australia’s travel ban and border closure has impacted you and your family.
Earlier today I was able to Question the Secretary of Home Affairs – Michael Pezzullo AO – and the Commissioner of the Australian Border Force – Michael Outram APM – during the Covid-19 Senate Select Committee hearing.
You can see my questions on the following link: https://www.facebook.com/NickMcKim/posts/380727886749663
It is clear from their testimony today that your perseverance, campaigning and ongoing advocacy has paid off and that the Government, Department of Home Affairs and Australian Border Force are starting to take your concerns seriously.
Today I was advised the following:
In relation to the 21 families where children on temporary visas were living in Australia before the borders closed and are stranded overseas and separated from 1 or both of their parents, the Commissioner has agreed to review these cases once again.
In relation to Prospective Marriage (Subclass 300) visa holders, the Department of Home Affairs has advised us today that they are currently developing options for the Minister on this issue which is a very positive, and welcome development.
In relation to Subclass 485 visa holders, international students as well as other visa holders impacted by the border closure (such as Subclass 489/491/482/476/BVBs) – the Department advised us today that they are working through all visa subclasses methodically, and are actively looking at what can be done to assist people.
In addition, overnight I received answers from the Department of Home Affairs to almost all of the Questions on Notice I submitted in May following the many issues that you have raised with me since the borders closed. You can see these answers on the following link:
https://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Senate_estimates/legcon/2021-22_Budget_estimates
Finally, I understand that earlier this week Pharmacists were added to the PMSOL list – you can view the updated list here.
The Senate recommences next week and will be sitting throughout August, so please be assured that the Australian Greens will continue to keep the pressure on the Government and I will be back in touch with more updates as soon as they are available.
In the meantime, stay safe and take care.
Warm regards
Nick
Senator Nick McKim
Australian Greens Senator for Tasmania
This is my story.
149b Macquarie Street, Hobart TAS 7000 | T: 03 6224 8899
SG-55 Parliament House, Canberra ACT 2600 | T: 02 6277 3601