Local residents are angry that the Federal Government has not only jeopardised Australia’s border protection but is using taxpayer funds to process, transfer and offer legal advice to asylum seekers.

“One of the most consistent issues raised by people in the Cowan electorate is that the Labor Government has lost control of our borders,” said Mr Simpkins. “Local residents are furious that the Government has not only compromised Australia’s strong border reputation but is using taxpayers’ funds to pay for their shambolic and failed asylum seeker policies.” 

"People smugglers know that Labor has softened Australia's border protection laws and are taking full advantage of the situation with boatload after boatload," said Mr Simpkins. 

“Illegal boat arrivals are now occurring at the highest rate on record.  We have gone from an average three boat arrivals per year since 2002, to an average of more than three per week,” said Mr Simpkins. 

“The arrival of the 100th boat since the last election is just the latest evidence that the Government has lost control of Australia's borders,” said Luke Simpkins MP.

“We cannot allow the fairness and integrity of our immigration and refugee programmes to be compromised at the expense of tax payers” Luke Simpkins MP concluded.

Ends.

Media enquires: Lara Swift (08) 9409 4100 / 0409 198 598