Ankle Tracking Devices and Curfews Mandated for Serious Criminals Released from Detention

Ankle tracking devices and strict curfews will be imposed on serious criminals released from indefinite immigration detention, under new emergency laws being fast-tracked by the federal government.

Following the High Court's ruling that indefinite detention was unlawful, the government is responding to concerns raised by the opposition regarding potential threats posed by released criminals, including murderers and sex offenders.

Home Affairs Minister Clare O'Neil will introduce strict new visa conditions as part of the government's emergency response to the court decision. These conditions will allow ankle monitoring bracelets and curfews to be enforced on the 83 detainees released in the past week.

In a significant development, criminal sanctions could be applied to those who violate these visa conditions, potentially resulting in jail time.

The opposition leader, Anthony Albanese, is facing mounting pressure to address the issue of foreign criminals, including murderers and paedophiles, being released into the community. The High Court ruling has seen 81 asylum seekers released, prompting calls for decisive action.

Ms. O'Neil expressed her concerns about the released detainees, stating that some had committed deplorable and disgusting crimes. The government's priority is ensuring community safety while managing the mandatory impact of the court ruling.

The proposed changes are scheduled to be introduced to parliament on Thursday. The Coalition has indicated its support for the government's legislative response, pending further details.

Last week's High Court decision compelled the government to release 83 immigrants held in indefinite detention due to no other country being willing to accept them. Among those released was Sirul Azahr Umar, a convicted murderer sentenced to death in Malaysia for killing his girlfriend.

The Australian Federal Police commissioner has briefed state and territory counterparts on the court decision, and a joint operation with the Australian Border Force is in place to coordinate the detainees' release.

Although detainees were already subject to strict visa conditions, including reporting requirements and work restrictions, the new laws aim to further monitor and regulate their activities.

The reasoning behind the High Court's decision has yet to be released. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is currently attending the APEC economic leaders' summit in San Francisco.