Sourced positions
A verified position is the member's own stated view or vote, supported by the listed sources. This page records public statements and conduct only — see methodology.
Immigration verified
In his first speech (December 2013), Watts argued immigration and multiculturalism are 'foundation stones' of Australia's open society and that 'an open economy cannot reach its full potential without an equally open society.' While saying asylum seekers should arrive 'in a fair and orderly way,' he called the Coalition's 'dramatic cuts to Australia's annual refugee intake and aid budget' 'an abject moral failure,' and criticised renaming the immigration department to add 'Border Protection.'
Foreign policy & aid verified
Watts is described as an outspoken advocate of Australian aid in Parliament and a proponent of greater Australian engagement in Asia. He has stated that there is no other nation in Asia more important to Australia's future than Indonesia.
Record last updated 2026-08-13.