'We want migrants and visitors back ASAP': Immigration Minister

Australia's newly-appointed Immigration Minister Alex Hawke says the government is planning to allow migrants and visitors back into the country as soon as possible.

Immigration Minister Alex Hawke says the updated PMSOL is a result of consultations with the Australian business community. Source: AAP

Immigration minister Alex Hawke admits he has taken office at a particularly daunting time in Australia's history.

Due to border closures under the COVID-19 pandemic, Australia's net migration has dropped to negative levels not seen since World War Two.

From a migrant family and of Greek-Australian origin, Mr Hawke says migration will be a key aspect of Australia's recovery from the pandemic.

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