The AGE argues that Mr Turnbull's pitch - Australian jobs first and Australian values - carries a risky whiff of desperation amid leadership speculation fuelled by consistently poor polling results.
The AGE argues that Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull's nationalistic posturing on immigration is problematic, in part because its very premise - that there are uniquely Australian values - is questionable and potentially divisive.
The Prime Minister repeatedly says that Australia is one of the most successful multicultural societies in the world. However the paper points out that now he seems to be seeking to appeal to voters attracted to the anti-immigration line of the One Nation party.
And it argues that Mr Turnbull's pitch carries a risky whiff of desperation because the changes to the citizenship requirements and the 457 visa policy come amid leadership speculation fuelled by consistently poor polling results, and as anti-immigration sentiment rises throughout the world.
The paper also indicates that a debate over the appropriate level of immigration is reasonable. But the debate should not be blurred by "Australian values but should be based on the evidence that immigration has enriched our nation.
It also explains that the values is not confined to just Australian ones. They are human values based on universal human rights. These values include: freedom, fairness, compassion, the rule of law, equality before the law and equality of opportunity.
The AGE pointedly says the working visa changes are dressed up as putting Australian jobs first - an echo of US President Donald Trump's own nationalism and dissembling. And the changes to the citizenship process are more about form than substance.
The paper believes it is poor form to play the immigration card and points out that Mr Turnbull risks looking insecure and jingoistic.
