Govt advisor for asylum policy resigns

The denial of work rights to new boat arrivals has led to the resignation of a member of the Government's advisory council on asylum seekers and detention.

The federal coalition is set to announce its counter plan on asylum-seeker boat arrivals.

Mental health expert, Professor Harry Minas, has quit as a member of the Minister's Council on Asylum Seekers and Detention.

He described the Gillard government's recent denial of work rights for recent arrivals as the "last straw".

Before August the 13th, asylum-seekers arriving by boat and released on bridging visas did have access to work rights and Professor Minas says he couldn't support the withdrawal of those rights.

"This latest step is really just a step too far," Mr Minas told SBS Radio.

"The government has moved closer and closer to the opposition position, I absolutely disagree with what the possible next government is proposing to do and I think this government has moved closer to that position over time."