Under Hanson, Socceroo heroes would never have called Australia home

June 16, 2026 — 11:45am

You have reached your maximum number of saved items.

Remove items from your saved list to add more.

In the backyard with my toddler on Sunday afternoon, I heard my husband yell from the living room while a chorus of cheers erupted from neighbouring houses. Darting back inside, I watched Nestory Irankunda deliver Australia’s opening goal against Türkiye. This was a goal that began in a refugee camp.

And it’s not just Irankunda. There’s Mohamed Touré and Awer Mabil, also born in refugee camps, in Guinea and Kenya respectively. And Milos Degenek, who fled Croatia with his family before migrating to Australia. In fact, more than half the Socceroos squad hail from migrant backgrounds.

Now household names in Australia, they are celebrated across the political spectrum. They embody the sporting prowess and fighting spirit we like to claim as deeply held Australian values. They also embody the diversity we should all be proud of – though there are voices rising against their inclusion.

The Socceroos’ victory is what happens when we embrace, celebrate and foster a truly multicultural vision of Australia. But the alarming reality is........

© Brisbane Times