Kim Beazley has demanded that migrants and visitors coming into Australia pledge their support for mateship, hard work, and other words that have tested well with focus groups. "It's vital that those coming to Australia understand the concepts of equality, respect and a fair go," said the Opposition Leader. "Then once they've gained political office they can trade them for incompetence, cynicism and expediency."

Initially criticized for applying the strict criteria to tourists and visitors as well as full migrants, Beazley was quick to announce caveats. "Apart from the unnecessary inconvenience these requirements could cause to white people, we must also recognize there are some sacred ethnic traditions that need to be respected," said Beazley.

"Like branch stacking, for example."

Beazley also vowed to strengthen the language tests involved in becoming a citizen, a initiative initially suggested by strong language enthusiast Mark Latham. While members of his own partyroom have argued the measures ignore Labor's core heritage, Beazley remains adamant. "This policy is fully in line with Labor's traditions," said Beazley.

"After all, we came up with mandatory detention and the White Australia Policy."

The suggestions have also been attacked by Amanda Vanstone, who accused Labor of xenophobia, and also plagiarism.

John Howard, however, has announced stringent new measures of his own. Anyone wanting to become an Australian citizen must wait four more years, and anyone else wanting to become Prime Minister must wait at least three.

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