Barnaby Joyce, a One Nation MP, said that his party aims for a net overseas migration target of 130,000 [1].
The clarification follows public confusion regarding the party's stance on immigration. The move seeks to distance One Nation from suggestions that its targets would mirror those of the Labor party.
Speaking in an interview with News24, which aired on Sky News Australia in April 2024, Joyce addressed comments made by fellow One Nation MP David Farley. Farley had previously suggested that the party's migration numbers would align with the current government's targets [2].
Joyce sought to reaffirm the party's commitment to stricter limits on the number of people entering the country. He said that the party is focused on the figure of 130,000 [1].
During the interview, Joyce defended the policy against accusations of harshness. He said, "It’s not being cruel, it’s just being absolutely practical" [1].
The debate over net overseas migration remains a central point of contention for One Nation as it defines its platform relative to the major political parties. By setting a specific numerical target, Joyce aimed to provide a clear alternative to the existing government policy.
Joyce said, "We’re at 130,000 net overseas migration" [1].
“"It’s not being cruel, it’s just being absolutely practical."”
This clarification indicates internal friction within One Nation regarding the communication of its immigration platform. By publicly correcting a colleague, Joyce is attempting to signal to the party's base that One Nation remains committed to significantly lower migration levels than those supported by the Labor government, framing the restriction as a matter of national practicality rather than ideology.
