Albanese defends his government’s record on border security as illegal boat arrivals rise

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has rebutted claims that his government intends to close down the Nauru offshore detention center, refuting reports suggesting a projected $250 million saving by decommissioning the processing facility as inaccurate.

During an interview on the 2GB radio show, Albanese emphasized the continuity of Operation Sovereign Borders, asserting, “We now don’t send people to PNG, because that facility is closed. Nauru is open.”

In response to questions from host Chris O’Keefe regarding the budget allocation for “offshore management” within the Home Affairs department, Albanese clarified that the figures indicated a decline in funding from $604 million in 2024-25 to $339 million in 2025-26, $345 million in 2026-27, and then $352 million in 2027-28.

When pressed about the perceived decision to “mothball” the facility, the Prime Minister firmly stated, “We’re not.” He dismissed the notion of saving $250 million by relocating detainees from the Nauru detention center, emphasizing its operational status for processing unauthorized arrivals.

Albanese underscored the government’s stance on border security amidst recent instances of illegal boat arrivals, attributing such occurrences to periodic attempts by people smugglers. He highlighted the effectiveness of Operation Sovereign Borders, noting increased funding and robust measures in place to deter unauthorized maritime arrivals.

Citing recent incidents such as the detention of individuals on Saibai Island and the interception of asylum seekers in Western Australia, who were subsequently transferred to Nauru, Albanese reiterated Australia’s firm stance on settlement policies for unauthorized boat arrivals.

Amid criticisms and challenges, the Prime Minister reaffirmed the government’s unwavering commitment to border security, citing substantial investments to bolster national capabilities and ensure the integrity of Australia’s borders.

Albanese concluded by reiterating that under his leadership, no unauthorized boat arrivals have been allowed to settle in the country, emphasizing the resolve to combat people smuggling and uphold stringent border protection measures.