Professional compliance officers not 'bullies'
Letter to the Editor – Robinvale Sentinel
13 September
Dear Madam
The unfounded allegations of 'bullying' and 'stand over tactics' (Heartbreaking challenges and concerns across the district 30/8/07) by officers from the Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) must be corrected.
The claim in your report that immigration compliance officers, who often work with officials from other departments and agencies, can enter a property without warrants or the presentation of identification is simply wrong.
Warrants are obtained where there is reasonable cause to believe that an unlawful non-citizen may be located at an address.
Warrants must be produced and identification shown as well as an explanation given as to why the officers are present.
Compliance officers are trained professionals who endeavour not to interfere with the day-to-day running of a business and any impact is kept to a minimum.
One grower in your story said it was not his responsibility to report suspected illegal immigrants for fear of having 'their shed and home burnt down'.
Information from the public, including employers, provides important support to the department in its efforts to maintain the integrity of Australia's borders and immigration programmes.
The department treats any information in the strictest confidence and no details are provided on the source of any information.
While not every operation locates illegal workers, every operation is conducted based on the best possible sources of information. It is irresponsible and unhelpful to dismiss well-trained and professional DIAC compliance officers as 'bullies'.
Sandi Logan
National Communications Manager
Department of Immigration and Citizenship