The Government has taken strong and immediate action to restore Australia's border integrity by implementing Operation Sovereign Borders and investing in more effective border management.

Operation Sovereign Borders

The Government's strong and effective border protection policies are stopping the boats and people smugglers now understand that the way to Australia is closed. This is amajor achievement when compared with a peak of over 4,000 arrivals in July 2013.

The success of Operation Sovereign Borders has delivered significant savings to the Budget. The reduction in arrivals has resulted in a $2.5 billion saving this Budget.

The significant reduction in boat arrivals will mean that $283 million in savings over five years will result from changes to management of the detention network including closure of some centres.

The Government is also continuing to work with regional partners to stem the flow of irregular migrants and put the people smugglers out of business.

Effective border management

Efficient and effective border management is crucial to Australia's national security and will support future economic prosperity.

This Budget commits $711 million over six years to enhance Australia's border management.

From 1 July 2015 the Government will consolidate existing border protection services to establish the Australian Border Force, a single frontline operational border agency, to enforce our customs and immigration laws and protect our border.