Australia To Refuse Visas For Domestic Violence Offenders

A decision has been made to refuse entry to Australia for people who have been convicted of domestic violence.

This new federal government directive came into force on Thursday, and affects anyone who has committed violence against women or children.

"If you've been convicted of a violent crime against women or children, you are not welcome," Immigration Minister David Coleman said.

"Wherever the offence occurred, whatever the sentence, Australia will have no tolerance for domestic violence perpetrators."

Currently the government can revoke visas based on laws surrounding the failing of a character test or who have spent 12 months in jail.

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