Visitors to Australia can be refused entry or kicked out if they have been convicted of domestic violence, under a new federal government directive.
Immigration Minister David Coleman's decision came into force on Thursday, barring anyone who has committed violence against women or children from the country.
"If you've been convicted of a violent crime against women or children, you are not welcome," Mr Coleman said.
"Wherever the offence occurred, whatever the sentence, Australia will have no tolerance for domestic violence perpetrators."
He said the direction would apply not only to decision-makers inside the Department of Home Affairs, but also to the Administrative Appeals Tribunal.
"There have been a number of cases where decision-makers within the government have refused a visa to someone who has been guilty of domestic violence.
