Geelong, Australia – A shocking decision by the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT) to reinstate the visa of Gurpreet Singh, an Indian national convicted of a brutal assault near Eastern Beach in 2017, has sparked outrage from Geelong-based Senator Sarah Henderson. Singh, who had spent six years in prison for the attack on a pizza delivery driver, successfully fought to remain in Australia after his release on parole.
The tribunal’s ruling cited Singh’s significant ties to Australia as a key factor in overturning the visa cancellation. This decision has raised concerns about the growing trend of violent foreign criminals having their visas reinstated, prompting calls for action from Immigration Minister Andrew Giles. Senator Henderson expressed dismay over the decision, emphasizing that Singh should have faced deportation for his heinous crime.
The victim of Singh’s attack, Lakhwinder Singh, suffered severe injuries that required extensive medical treatment, including surgery to repair skull fractures. The brutal assault, which nearly resulted in a murder charge for the attacker, occurred in a car park near Eastern Beach. Further exacerbating the situation, revelations about Minister Giles’ controversial Direction 99, issued in January 2023, have added fuel to the fire, leading to increased pressure on the Minister.
In response to the AAT’s decision, the Home Affairs Department is expected to review and potentially reverse the reinstatement of Singh’s visa. Minister Giles expressed deep concern over the cases of serious offenders being granted visa reinstatements without his knowledge, calling for greater oversight in such matters. The government is anticipated to address similar cases on an ongoing basis to prevent further controversial decisions.
The contentious nature of Singh’s case has reignited debates on community safety and immigration policies, with stakeholders calling for stricter regulations to prevent violent criminals from remaining in the country. As the government grapples with the aftermath of the tribunal’s decision, concerns persist over the implications of allowing convicted offenders to stay in Australia. The outcome of this case may have far-reaching consequences for future visa reinstatement decisions and the overall safety of communities.