First boat turned back under Albanese government

The first boat of suspected illegal arrivals has been turned back under Anthony Albanese as Australia’s border protection policy remains unchanged.

The first boat of suspected illegal immigrants has been turned back under the watch of an Albanese Government.

Intercepted on Saturday, passengers on board the boat were all safely returned to Sri Lanka, authorities revealed Tuesday.

Commander of Operation Sovereign Borders Rear Admiral Justin Jones said it was proof Australia’s policy on illegal arrivals had not changed.

“The direction to me by the Acting Prime Minister was clear – this government remains committed to Operation Sovereign Borders, and to the protection of lives at sea,” Rear Admiral Jones said.

“We will intercept any vessel seeking to reach Australia illegally, and safely return those on board to their point of departure or country of origin, or if not safe to do so, they will be transferred to regional processing.”

Commander Joint Agency Task Force Operation Sovereign Borders, Rear Admiral Justin Jones said the turnback proved Australia’s policies had not changed under the new government.

Acting Prime Minister Richard Marles said it was important people smugglers understood there would be no changes to Australia’s border protection regime under the current government.

“I think it’s important to say upfront, what this shows is that there is absolutely no change in terms of Australia’s border settings,’’ he said.

Operation Sovereign Borders was established under Tony Abbott in 2013 to deter asylum seekers and refugees from arriving on Australia’s shores.

Labor revealed during the election campaign it would continue the policy which has dramatically reduced boat arrivals despite opposing similar measures in 2007.

It is the first boat to be turned back under an Albanese government, with Labor traditionally opposing the coalitions' tough approach to illegal arrivals. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Andrew Taylor

Rear Admiral Jones said all of the passengers underwent assessments of their health and protection grounds and were “screened out” from evoking Australia’s protection obligations.

“Following theses assessments, all passengers were safely returned to Sri Lanka,” he said.

“My message to people smugglers attempting illegal maritime ventures to Australia is clear, don’t risk your life on a dangerous journey, Australia’s policies have not changed, a legal and safe pathway is the only way to a life in Australia.”

Originally published as First boat turned back under Albanese government