A multi-agency crackdown across Far North Queensland has uncovered unlawful migrants, alleged worker exploitation and unsafe living conditions, with Australian Border Force (ABF) officers locating 12 unlawful non-citizens during a four-day enforcement operation.
The operation, conducted across Innisfail, Mareeba, Atherton and Dimbulah, involved the ABF, Queensland Police Service, Department of Employment and Workplace Relations, and WorkCover Queensland.
Authorities carried out 180 immigration status checks and identified 25 persons of interest. Six unlawful non-citizens were detained and are set to be removed from Australia, while another six were granted bridging visas under strict conditions requiring them to either depart the country or lodge a valid visa application within a specified period.
ABF officers also uncovered alleged migrant worker exploitation, including unlawful non-citizens living and working at a tobacco store and another property where 13 people were reportedly housed in unsafe and squalid conditions.
Information gathered during the operation led to action against a previously identified tobacco store, which was referred to the ABF’s Illicit Tobacco National Disruption Group and subsequently shut down by Queensland Health. Authorities say investigations into the stores will continue as part of broader efforts to disrupt organised criminal networks involved in the illicit tobacco trade.
The operation also identified four disengaged workers from the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) scheme. They have been referred to the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations for support to help them re-engage with the program.
The ABF said the operation was intelligence-led, drawing on previous compliance activities, community reports, Queensland Police data and information received through the Border Watch reporting system.
ABF Commander John Taylor said the operation reinforced the government’s commitment to protecting migrant workers and maintaining the integrity of Australia’s migration system.
“This operation is a sharp reminder that non-citizens without a valid visa should leave Australia immediately or face enforcement action, including detention and removal,” Commander Taylor said.
“ABF officers remain focused on protecting the Australian community by identifying and addressing risks posed by non-citizens engaged in unlawful or criminal activity.
“The Australian Border Force is maintaining the integrity of Australia’s migration system and protecting migrant workers from exploitation through active and coordinated enforcement in Far North Queensland and across the country.”
Authorities warned that employers who breach migration laws can face significant penalties, including fines, civil prosecution and being publicly declared a prohibited employer.
The operation follows a series of recent compliance actions across Far North Queensland aimed at tackling visa fraud, worker exploitation and unlawful employment practices.
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