PM resists push for NZ refugee deal after Labor, crossbench offer 'compromise'

Labor is willing to support the 'lifetime ban' if the New Zealand deal goes ahead - on the condition it only applies to that cohort of refugees. The PM says he will not 'horsetrade' on borders.

Scott Morrison has rejected a "compromise" offered by Labor and the crossbench MPs. Source: AAP

The government maintains it will only accept New Zealand's offer to take up to 150 refugees if parliament approves its so-called ‘lifetime ban’ legislation, which would ban the refugees from ever entering Australia, even as visitors years later.

Aaron and Thomas report.