02:42

In Senate estimates the Greens immigration spokesman, Nick McKim, has said a speech given by the head of the immigration department, Michael Pezzullo, showed “fascist tendencies”.

McKim was referring to a speech given by Pezzullo to justify the home affairs department, of which he is secretary-designate. According to the Mandarin, Pezzullo warned a “dark universe” was emerging as a consequence of globalisation and Australia needs the new security mega-department to confront the forces of evil.



McKim: “I read your speech you gave for the philosophical context of the new department with interest and terror – equal parts I might say.”



Pezzullo: “Sorry, you were terrified?”

McKim: “I was terrified of your thought processes, yes, I don’t like fascists and authoritarians.”



Pezzullo: “I beg your pardon?”



McKim: “I thought that some fascist tendencies came out in that speech.”



McKim is asked to withdraw the comment, and he does so. He did not elaborate which part of the speech he was referring to.