Boat arrivals have defined and divided 21st-century Australia. This book examines the ‘Stop the Boats’ era from between the 2013 and 2022 federalelections. During this time the dominant political view has been that to accept a single boat, family or person is to risk being overwhelmed by many others. It follows that government must do whatever it takes to command Australia’s borders and deter unauthorized arrivals; that is, Stop the Boats!

This book sets out the key political events and arguments for and against Australia’s assurance that anyone who comes without permission will never be able to stay. It examines the impact of this commitment on regional and international relations, on those who seek refuge in Australia, and on those who call it ‘home’. This volume serves as a valuable political history and analysis for scholars, policymakers, students, journalists and anyone who is interested in questions of contemporary exclusion and belonging.

About the Author

Kim Huynh is a teacher, writer, researcher and broadcaster who helps people to tell their stories.

His latest book analyses Australia's Refugee Politics in the 21st Century and develops ways to enhance national security, refugee rights and social cohesion. Kim’s published a collection of stories about contemporary Vietnam entitled Vietnam as if ... (ANU Press). His biography of his parents Where the Sea Takes Us (HarperCollins) attracted academic and literary acclaim. He co-authored Children and Global Conflict (Cambridge University Press) and co-edited The Culture Wars (Palgrave-McMillan).

Kim convenes courses on refugee politics and political philosophy and received the ANU Vice Chancellor's Award for Excellence in Teaching. He facilitates exchanges of culture and ideas with the Vietnamese Australia Forum, coordinates a current affairs discussion group at the Early Morning Centre and writes essays on a wide range of topics. Kim ran as independent candidate in the 2016 ACT election and in the 2022 federal election. He is an ABC Radio Canberra presenter and Deputy Director of the ANU Humanities Research Centre.