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The Express Gazette
Tuesday, October 6, 2026

Coalition Criticized for 'Johnny-Come-Lately' Immigration Plan

Peter van Onselen argues that the Coalition's recent proposals to reduce immigration are insufficient, as they played a role in creating the current situation.

US Politics • 3 hours ago
Coalition Criticized for 'Johnny-Come-Lately' Immigration Plan

Political commentator Peter van Onselen has criticized the Coalition's recent plan to significantly reduce immigration, labeling it a "Johnny-come-lately" approach. Van Onselen argues that the Coalition, a political group, bears responsibility for the circumstances that have led to the current immigration challenges.

According to van Onselen, the Coalition's timing and involvement in the immigration debate are problematic. He suggests that the group is only now proposing solutions after the issue has been largely shaped, implying they missed opportunities to influence policy earlier or even contributed to the problem.

The commentary raises questions about the effectiveness of such late-stage proposals, particularly in swaying voters who may have already shifted their allegiances. Van Onselen's remarks point to a potential disconnect between the Coalition's current strategy and the political landscape it aims to influence.

The broader context of immigration policy and political responses remains a significant point of discussion, with van Onselen's analysis highlighting internal critiques within political discourse regarding the handling of immigration.

There's no doubt that the Coalition are the Johnny-come-lately followers on this issue. Clearly it's One Nation that deserves the credit for putting immigration on the agenda in the first place


Sources