Barnaby Joyce has attributed the contradiction of One Nation's immigration policy by the party's Farrer candidate, David Farley, to the pressures of an election campaign. Farley had indicated that Australia's net overseas migration of 306,000 last year was 'probably not' excessive, despite One Nation's official policy capping migration at 130,000 per year.
Candidate's Remarks Spark Controversy
During a candidate forum hosted by former Insiders host Barrie Cassidy, Farley stated that immigration levels should be aligned with housing, health, and education policies, noting the demand for skilled labor. When asked if 306,000 net overseas migrants were too many, Farley responded, 'No, it's probably not.' He argued that the appropriate number should be determined by productivity and capacity building needs.
Joyce's Defense
Joyce downplayed the incident on Sky News, asserting that Farley agrees with the party's 130,000 cap and that the slip was due to campaign pressure. He emphasized the need to assess an area's capacity to absorb migrants, referencing the lack of houses, schools, and hospitals in major cities.
Farley's comments have drawn criticism from Nationals leader Matt Canavan, who accused both Farley and independent candidate Michelle Milthorpe of running dishonest campaigns. Canavan criticized Farley for endorsing Labor's migration settings, contrary to One Nation's stated policy.
Farrer Byelection Context
The Farrer byelection is expected to be a close contest between Farley and Milthorpe. The seat, located on the NSW-Victoria border, has historically been held by Liberal or Nationals members. Canavan downplayed the political impact of a potential Coalition loss, acknowledging voter disillusionment.
Rinehart Donation Dismissed
Joyce also dismissed concerns about a million-dollar donation from Gina Rinehart's company to One Nation, including a private plane worth over $1.5 million. He argued that voters are less concerned about such donations than journalists, and that attracting big donors reflects a compelling political philosophy.
Joyce compared One Nation's donors to Labor and Greens supporters, stating that successful business people back the party due to its conservative values. He concluded that the donation would not harm One Nation's electoral prospects.
