Hawke: I welcome Federal Court decision to revoke Djokovic visa
Australian Immigration Minister Alex Hawke, today praised the decision of the Australian Federal Court, which confirmed his previous decision to revoke the visa of tennis player Novak Djokovic, stating that the decision was made to preserve the safety of the Australian community.
"I welcome today the unanimous decision of the Australian Federal Court, which confirms my decision to use my powers under the Migration Act to revoke Novak Djokovic's visa, in the public interest," Hawke said.
Australian Federal Court today confirmed Hawke's decision to lift Novak Djokovic's visa, dampening the hopes of the unvaccinated tennis superstar to win the Australian Open and a record 21 men's Grand Slam titles.
Deciding on a case that has dominated Australian public life and the world of sports for days, a three-judge Federal Court today heard arguments from government lawyers that Djokovic's continued presence in the country could boost anti-vaccination sentiment during the worst. Covid-19 wave since the beginning of the pandemic in Australia.
Medical release which allowed the Serbian tennis champion to enter the country without vaccination, sparked outrage in Australia and became a political issue for Prime Minister Scott Morrison, who must call a federal election before May.
"Australia's strong border protection policy protects us during the pandemic, which has resulted in one of the lowest mortality rates, the strongest economic recovery and the highest vaccination rates in the world. Strong border protection policies are also fundamental to preserving Australia's social cohesion, which continues to strengthen despite the pandemic, Hawke said.
Source: MIA