Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke has criticized Liberal leadership contender Andrew Hastie for his comments about immigration, which he claims are making Australians feel like "strangers" in their own country. Hastie, a Western Australia Liberal MP, expressed his concerns on social media, stating that the recent surge in immigration has led to nearly a million new residents in the last two years. He described this situation as "unsustainable" and argued that Australians are feeling the effects of the current Labor government's immigration policies.

In response, Burke dismissed Hastie's remarks, suggesting that the Liberal Party's outdated views are what truly make Australia feel strange. He noted that net overseas migration has decreased by more than 40 percent, countering Hastie's claims. "Modern Australia must be strange to a Liberal Party that stubbornly refuses to enter the 21st century," Burke said. He challenged Hastie to specify which visa categories he would cut to address his concerns.

Hastie, who serves as the shadow home affairs minister, countered Burke's comments by accusing him of overseeing "uncontrolled immigration". He questioned Burke's plans for reducing migration numbers and suggested that Burke prioritizes the interests of big businesses and universities over Australian citizens.

Recent data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics indicates that the country's population grew by 423,400 people in the year ending March 31, 2025, with net overseas migration accounting for 315,900 of that increase. This figure represents a decline of 177,900 from the previous year, suggesting a slowdown in population growth. The data also shows a decrease in migration rates across all temporary visa categories, particularly among international students and visitors.

The debate over immigration has intensified within the Liberal Party, as members grapple with their policy direction following a significant electoral defeat. Hastie's recent social media posts, which include nostalgic images of Australia, have sparked internal conflict. He has faced backlash from colleagues who questioned his views, leading him to label them as "nameless cowards" and "muppets".

Support for Hastie has emerged from other conservative figures, including Matt Canavan and Jacinta Nampijinpa Price, who was removed from the shadow frontbench after controversial comments about Indian migrants. The ongoing discussions within the party reflect broader tensions regarding immigration, foreign affairs, and climate change policies.

Liberal MP Tony Pasin expressed frustration over the party's lack of a clear policy platform, stating that it leaves members feeling exposed and unprepared. He emphasized the need for the party to establish a coherent direction to regain focus and address voter concerns.

Hastie warned that if the Coalition does not take action on immigration levels, it risks alienating voters and jeopardizing its future as a political movement. "We might even die as a political movement," he stated, underscoring the urgency he feels regarding the issue.