04 June 2026
A multi agency enforcement operation across Far North Queensland has identified unlawful non citizens and disrupted migrant worker exploitation, reinforcing a commitment to protecting workers and the integrity of Australia’s migration system.
Australian Border Force (ABF) officers from the Department of Home Affairs conducted 180 status checks and located 25 persons of interest, including 12 unlawful non citizens, during a four day operation.
As a result of the operation, six unlawful non citizens were detained for removal from Australia, while a further six were issued bridging visas with strict conditions requiring them to depart Australia or lodge a valid visa application within a specified timeframe.
ABF officers identified unlawful non citizens living and working at a tobacco store and another property housing 13 people in unsafe and squalid conditions.
Intelligence relating to a previously visited tobacco store was referred to the ABF’s illicit tobacco National Disruption Group and was subsequently shut down by Queensland Health. Further investigations into the stores will form part of ongoing illicit tobacco disruption activities targeting criminal syndicates.
The broader operation involved coordination with the Queensland Police Service (QPS), the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations (DEWR) and WorkCover Queensland.
During the operation, four disengaged Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) scheme workers were identified and referred to DEWR for appropriate support services to re-engage with the scheme.
The targeted operation was conducted across Innisfail, Mareeba, Atherton and Dimbulah and informed by intelligence from previous compliance activity, community reports, QPS data and anonymous information provided via
Border Watch.
This activity builds on recent enforcement actions in Far North Queensland and delivers a clear message: migrant worker exploitation, abuse of Australia’s visa system and unlawful non-citizens engaged in criminal activity will not be tolerated.
Employers who breach migration laws face
serious penalties, including infringement notices, civil prosecution and potential public declaration as a prohibited employer.
Under the Migration Act 1958, the Department has the power to detain and remove unlawful non-citizens from Australia.
Anyone with information relating to potential immigration offences or suspicious activity is encouraged to contact Home Affairs and make a report online at
Border Watch. Reports can be made anonymously.
Disengaged workers seeking to re-engage in the PALM scheme are encouraged to call the PALM scheme support service line on 1800 515 131 for assistance and contact their
country liaison officer for guidance.
QUOTES ATTRIBUTABLE TO ABF COMMANDER JOHN TAYLOR – FIELD OPERATIONS AND SPONSOR MONITORING:
“This operation is a sharp reminder that non citizens without a valid visa should leave Australia immediately or face enforcement action, including detention and removal.”
“ABF officers remain focused on protecting the Australian community by identifying and addressing risks posed by non citizens engaged in unlawful or criminal activity.”
“The Australian Border Force is maintaining the integrity of Australia’s migration system and protecting migrant workers from exploitation through active and coordinated enforcement in Far North Queensland and across the country.”
