Additional military aircraft and ships have been deployed to the north of Australia to support border protection efforts.

In response to concerns about potential increases in people smuggling activities. Operation Sovereign Borders (OSB) has requested “surge” support from Defence, which has been provided in recent weeks, according to Vice Admiral David Johnston. 

Speaking at a senate estimates hearing, Vice Admiral Johnston confirmed that the support included “additional aircraft surveillance and additional ships that are patrolling in our northern waters”. 

The surge's exact purpose was not disclosed. It comes after the Federal Government announced refugees who arrived in Australia prior to OSB's launch in 2013 would be eligible to remain permanently. The government is also ditching restrictions on applications for family reunion visas by those who arrived in Australia by boat. The previous federal government had ordered family reunion applications from refugees on permanent visas to be assessed as the “lowest priority”.

The Prime Minister says his government is “fully committed” to Operation Sovereign Borders.

“This government will be tough on borders without being weak on humanity. And that is the position that we took to the election, and that is the position that we are implementing,” Mr Albanese said.