More foreign-born criminals are set to be booted out of Australia under draft laws introduced to federal parliament.
Under the bill which hit the lower house on Thursday, anyone convicted of an offence punishable by at least two years in prison could have their visa cancelled - regardless of whether they were jailed for less time, or not jailed at all.
The laws would capture violent and sexual crimes including riots, home invasions, carjackings and serious breaches of family violence orders.
Immigration Minister David Coleman said the move would help ensure the nation's multicultural society remained safe and secure.
"This bill sends a clear and unequivocal message on behalf of the Australian community that entry or stay in Australia is a privilege granted only to those of good character," Mr Coleman told parliament.
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"Like the Australian community, the government has no tolerance for non-citizens who are found to have committed these serious crimes."
The legislation will change migration laws to put in place a tougher character test.
As it stands, the visas of people sentenced to at least 12 months in prison can be cancelled on "bad character" grounds.
Under the new regime, violent offences including murder, manslaughter, kidnapping, assault, aggravated burglary and the threat of violence would be grounds for deportation
Sexual crimes including rape, indecent assault and revenge porn would also be captured along with weapon possession and assisting in any of the targeted offences.
Children who commit serious crimes would also be included in the crackdown.
