Dear Prime Minister,

We, the undersigned, respectfully disagree with the following matters raised in the proposed citizenship laws:

Firstly, the retrospective enactment is contrary to the Australian values that they seek to preserve, which is fairness, democratic consideration and equality of opportunity. It is in fact grossly unfair to existing migrants who have already made life-changing decisions to relocate, work or conduct business in Australia relying on the current rules. 

Next, there is no reasonable evidence that four years on a permanent residency visa enable better social contributions than the current General Residence Requirement. Unless further evidence is provided to the contrary, there is nothing to show what can be gained on a PR visa cannot be gained on a temporary visa. When it comes to social obligations, permanent and temporary residents are subject to the same regulations. There is no issue taken at all with the position that Australia continues to accept temporary residence periods towards the qualifying periods for citizenship. 

We, who have already lived, worked and integrated into the social norms of Australia for many years, respectfully request your reconsideration of these laws.