The Australian government is trying to cover up the operations of its Nauru detention centre, says federal independent MP Andrew Wilkie whose requests to visit the Pacific island have been refused.
After his visa application was blocked by the Nauru government, Mr Wilkie said Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull could easily facilitate an official visit but is instead trying to avoid scrutiny.
"The only conclusion that can be drawn from not allowing a sitting member of the federal parliament to visit is that the Australian government doesn't want the truth coming out," the Hobart-based MP said on Tuesday.