Immigration Minister Andrew Giles faces criticism for allowing criminal non-citizens to stay in Australia after their visas were cancelled.

The Administrative Appeals Tribunal overturned Giles' decisions, leading him to appeal.

Controversial cases, such as a man convicted of raping his stepdaughter retaining his visa, have heightened concerns.

Giles defends his decisions, citing community safety and family violence concerns.

A ministerial direction issued in January 2023 aims to balance community protection, family violence, ties to Australia, and children's best interests.

The Coalition plans to repeal this direction if they win the next election, criticizing the lack of transparency in tribunal cases.

The Opposition accuses the government of allowing a detainee crime spree, with over 150 released detainees and 28 allegedly reoffending.

The government is also criticized for not using emergency powers to detain high-risk individuals.

Uncertainty remains about the impact of direction 99 on visa cancellations, especially for New Zealanders.