Migration Amendment (Strengthening the Character Test) 2021

# Migration Amendment (Strengthening the Character Test) 2021 ## What it does This bill makes it harder for non-citizens to stay in or enter Australia by expanding what counts as a "character concern" under migration law. Specifically, it adds a new category called "designated offences" — serious crimes involving violence, sexual assault, weapons, or breaching protective orders — that can trigger character test failures and visa cancellations. ## Why it matters Non-citizens (including visa holders and permanent residents) can now be deported or refused entry based on convictions for these specific offences, even if they've served their sentence. This affects migrants, international students, and visa workers who commit or have committed these types of crimes. ## Key details - **Designated offences include**: violence or threats of violence against someone, sexual assault or non-consensual sexual conduct, breaching court protection orders, and possessing/using weapons - **Comes into effect**: The day after the bill receives Royal Assent (so immediately once passed) - **Scope**: Applies to convictions under Australian law *or* foreign country laws, meaning overseas criminal records can also trigger character test failures