Full Breakdown
One Nation Pushes for Net-Negative Migration Amid Political Turmoil
By Drooid · · How we work
One Nation’s Net-Negative Migration Proposal
One Nation has unveiled a plan to make overseas migration net-negative over the next three years, meaning departures would exceed arrivals. The party’s website now claims the target of 130,000 visas will be a net figure rather than a cap on arrivals, a shift that followed internal backlash after a deleted tweet suggested the original figure was a simple cap. The proposal assumes rapid deportation of roughly 80,000 unlawful non-citizens and a complete halt to partner visas for temporary workers. Former home affairs secretary Mike Pezzullo warned that such modelling could trigger labour shortages and significant economic impacts.
Background and Political Context
The policy emerged after Labor’s Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke cancelled a scheduled speech on an immigration crackdown in early August, exposing internal divisions and giving One Nation a window to promote its agenda. Former Labor adviser Henry Sherrell argued that “a few tweaks” would not satisfy public concern, while business groups and state Labor premiers warned that anti-migration sentiment could harm the economy. Barnaby Joyce, a former One Nation member, initially opposed negative migration on the grounds that population growth supports economic and fertility goals, prompting a brief party reversal before the current stance solidified.
Official Statements & Responses
One Nation announced that “over the three years net overseas migration will be net-negative.” Pezzullo dismissed the plan as lacking genuine sophistication and suggested a realistic cut of about 500,000 visas, rather than the 750,000 implied by the party’s modelling.
Criticism & Opposition
Labor’s opposition leader Angus Taylor expressed concern about being portrayed as weak by Hanson and signalled little chance of a compromise. Critics highlighted the logistical challenge of deporting 80,000 unlawful non-citizens quickly, labeling it a “heroic task” that would be costly. Henry Sherrell warned that the party’s “hands in the sand” approach could fuel populism, while business leaders warned of potential “economic carnage” if migration flows were sharply reduced.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Over the three years net overseas migration will be net-negative,” — One Nation
- “There’s the appearance of policy sophistication, and maybe they think that’s enough, but it’s not actual sophistication,” — Pezzullo. He