Form may stop NZ deportees appealing

In question time today, Green Party co-leader Metiria Turei asked why Mr Key would take the Australians’ word, when New Zealanders were being asked to sign a legal document that removed appeal rights from them.

It’s still to be confirmed whether the form the Greens have released is in fact being filled out by New Zealanders in detention centres across the Tasman.

The form, which is signed by immigration detainees who choose to leave Australia, was leaked to RNZ News on Monday.

Mr Dutton also said that New Zealanders who are successful in appealing their deportation will not be liable for the cost of their voluntary removal to New Zealand – a statement that appears to confirm those who aren’t successful would be billed.

Turei said deportees would have “no faith” in what Australian politicians were saying, given the MPs were responsible for the law changes behind their detention and deportation.

Justice Minister Amy Adams yesterday said if that form was still in use, it went against specific promises made by the Australian Government.

Detainees returning to New Zealand to have their appeal against deportation processed are being asked to sign a form that states their case may be dismissed once they leave Australia, the Green Party says.

“Cases have already occurred where New Zealand citizens have returned to Australia after receiving an appeal decision in their favour while they were back in New Zealand”.

Adams said the form was a generic one and used for deportees from all countries.

“It is unacceptable that the Prime Minister hasn’t been completely upfront with New Zealanders”.

“If they’ve misled John Key and misled any of us…then that is a pretty nasty conniving thing to go and do, and it is wrong, and Amy Adams is right to ask for a please explain – but it had better be a pretty bloody good one”.

The Australian immigration department has clarified the situation regarding individuals who have their visas cancelled and confirmed that applications to revoke a visa cancellation will continue to be processed after an individual has left the country.

After contacting Mr Dutton’s office on Tuesday, Ms Adams told reporters she had been assured Mr Turnbull’s commitment stood.

“The Prime Minister seems to be more anxious about the political interests of Malcolm Turnbull than the rights of New Zealanders”.

In a statement, Peter Dutton has now reiterated that.

“It’s all going to fall back on the New Zealand taxpayer to pay for everything…they’re [deportees] struggling to find work, how are they going to pay?”

“He’s an honourable man, he’s got a good relationship with New Zealand, we’ll be holding him to account”.

Mr Key said the form only said rights may be removed, and, secondly, he did not believe Mr Dutton was lying when he gave assurances that appeals would be heard fairly.