A High Court decision ruling indefinite detention unlawful – leading to the release of 148 immigration detainees, some of whom are criminals – has sparked weeks of toxic political debate about refugees.

In the last few days, the government raced to pass new immigration laws that will put an end to it, but the style of debate has already caused damage.

So, what have we learned from the debacle, and did Australia miss an opportunity to have a conversation about our hardline immigration policy?

Today, contributing editor of The Politics for The Monthly online, Rachel Withers, on how parliament ended the year on ugly scenes.




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Guest: Contributing editor of The Politics for The Monthly online, Rachel Withers

A High Court decision ruling indefinite detention unlawful – leading to the release of 148 immigration detainees, some of whom are criminals – has sparked weeks of toxic political debate about refugees.In the last few days, the government raced to pass new immigration laws that will put an end to it, but the style of debate has already caused damage.So, what have we learned from the debacle, and did Australia miss an opportunity to have a conversation about our hardline immigration policy?Today, contributing editor of The Politics for The Monthly online, Rachel Withers, on how parliament ended the year on ugly scenes. Socials: Stay in touch with us on <a href="http://www.twitter.com/7ampodcast">Twitter</a> and <a href="http://www.instagram.com/7ampodcast">Instagram</a>Guest: Contributing editor of The Politics for The Monthly online, Rachel Withers

An independent daily news show. We feature the country’s best reporters, covering the news as it affects Australia. This is news with narrative, every weekday.

An independent daily news show. We feature the country&rsquo;s best reporters, covering the news as it affects Australia. This is news with narrative, every weekday.

A daily news show from the publisher of The Monthly and The Saturday Paper.

A daily news show from the publisher of The Monthly and The Saturday Paper. Hear from the country’s best reporters, covering the news as it affects Australia. This is news with narrative, every weekday.

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