'Don't go there': Pauline Hanson fiercely rejects White Australia policy comparison

One Nation leader Pauline Hanson vehemently denied accusations that her strong opposition to migration from 'radical Islamic countries' constitutes a form of the White Australia policy. Speaking at a leadership breakfast in Perth, Hanson asserted that her stance is about safeguarding Australians and ensuring their safety.

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You've got to call out the elephant in the room.

Hanson's comments followed her return from the UK, where she had reportedly blamed the end of the White Australia policy for migration issues in Australia during an interview with activist Tommy Robinson. At the Perth event, she directly addressed concerns about radicalization and terrorism, referencing the Bondi terror attack. "You've got to call out the elephant in the room," she stated, emphasizing her desire to prevent people from 'radical Islamic countries' entering Australia.

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And I'm sorry to say this but I don't want people coming to this country from radical Islamic countries.

When challenged by the host, Hanson firmly rejected the comparison to the White Australia policy, declaring, "It's got nothing to do with that. It's got nothing to do with the White Australia policy at all. So don't go there with me, I tell you what, because I won't stand for it." She maintained she has never supported the policy.

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I don't want that here. I want to protect the Australian people, I want them to feel safe in the streets. I don't want to see this anti-Semitism that's going on. I don't want to see the hatred that's happening.

During her address, Hanson also highlighted Western Australia's economic contributions and its small business community. However, she pivoted to the state's low rental vacancy rate, attributing it again to migration. She noted that Australia's population grew significantly last year while housing additions lagged, leading to a shortage of homes in the state.

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That's why I'm very strong on certain countries. You've got to say no.