The ad hoc nature in which the policy evolved was also criticised, as it resulted in people being moved to Manus Island and Nauru before facilities were ready.
Sifat ad hoc dalam perubahan kebijakan ini juga dikritik dikarenakan banyak pencari suaka yang dipindahkan ke Pulau Manus dan Nauru sebelum fasilitas di sana siap dipakai.