The federal government has launched a renewed push to kick foreign-born criminals out of Australia.

The character test, which has already been used to cancel or refuse the visas of 10,000 people, would be strengthened under the legislation.

Legislation will be reintroduced to the Senate today to make it easier to deport people who’ve committed a serious crime. It was first introduced more than 1200 days ago and opposed by Labor and the Greens.

Under the proposed amendment, the government could refuse or cancel visas for non-citizens who’ve been convicted of a serious crime punishable by at least two years’ jail.

The offences included violent and sexual crimes, breaching personal protection orders, using or possessing a weapon or assisting with any of these crimes.

Immigration Minister Alex Hawke told Liam Bartlett the public are frustrated foreign-born criminals avoid deportation on technicalities.

“My portfolio is the most litigated portfolio, even on behalf of serious criminals,” he said.

“The public get most frustrated when courts overturn matters on technicalities for serious criminals.”

The Opposition believes the government already has adequate powers to deport criminals.

Press PLAY below to hear Alex Hawke on the new push:

Photo: iStock by Getty