Matt Canavan elected new leader of the National Party; two more Iranian women seek asylum

Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke told the House of Representatives that a member of the Iranian women’s football team delegation attempted to return to Iran after being granted a humanitarian visa, and that the delegation members were directed elsewhere by the government after Iranian officials learned their location.

Burke said he traveled to Brisbane and Sydney to see if any of the team were interested in accepting the Australian’s offer to stay in Australia. Two members of the delegation (one player and one support worker) requested to remain in Australia and, as previously reported, were granted humanitarian visas.

“I would suggest that one of the two people who made the decision to stay last night spoke to some of his teammates who left and changed their mind. In Australia, people can change their minds. People can travel. So we respect the context in which he made that decision,” Burke told the House of Representatives.

“Unfortunately, when making this decision, he was advised by his teammates and coach to contact and meet with the Iranian embassy. My officials made sure it was his decision and every question you would want to be asked was asked,” he said.

“As a result, the Iranian embassy now knew where everyone was. I immediately ordered people to be moved, and this situation was resolved immediately,” Burke said.

“We can all be proud of the support of members of the Australian Federal Police and the Department of Home Affairs in providing humanitarian visas to seekers,” the Minister said.

“Australia is a country where women can see that they also have the freedom to choose, and where those who decide to stay will be very welcome and where the rest of the Australian public will welcome them into our arms.”