ACRT report
Australian Churches Refugee Taskforce (ACRT) Submission to Australia’s Humanitarian Intake for 2024-25
The Australian Churches Refugee Taskforce (ACRT) is dedicated to advocating for the rights and well-being of refugees and asylum seekers in Australia. With a focus on humanitarian principles and social justice, the ACRT continually engages with policymakers to provide constructive feedback and recommendations regarding Australia's refugee and asylum policies.
Background
Annually, the Department of Home Affairs (Immigration) calls upon community organisations and stakeholders to contribute submissions in response to their Discussion Paper concerning Australia's Humanitarian Intake. This intake encompasses offshore refugee and humanitarian visas as well as onshore protection visas, all granted within each financial year. Notably, the Department disclosed the issuance of nearly 20,000 visas for the 2022-23 humanitarian intake. Submissions closed 7 June 2024.
ACRT’s Submission Focus
In alignment with our mission, the ACRT has submitted recommendations to Australia’s Humanitarian Intake for the fiscal year 2024-25. The ACRT submission is underpinned by a commitment to addressing key challenges faced by refugees and asylum seekers within Australia's immigration system, particularly around family reunion.
Key Recommendations
- Addressing Processing Delays: The ACRT highlights the urgent need to streamline processing procedures for refugee and humanitarian visas. Delays in processing not only prolong the uncertainty for applicants but also exacerbate their vulnerability and emotional distress.
- Policy Reviews: A review of family reunion policies to address challenges faced by protection visa and resolution of status visa holders in Australia, particularly the emotional, psychological, and financial burdens of prolonged family separation.
- Access to Financial and Legal Aid Services: Recognising the complex legal and financial hurdles faced by refugees and asylum seekers, increased funding for legal aid organisations and community-based initiatives aimed at providing financial assistance, guidance, and advocacy for individuals navigating the immigration system is needed.
The ACRT's submission to Australia’s Humanitarian Intake for 2024-25 underscores our commitment to promoting dignity, compassion, and justice for refugees and asylum seekers. By addressing processing delays, conducting policy reviews, and enhancing support services, we prioritise family reunion and alleviate separation anxiety.
Submissions to the Discussion Paper are generally not published online by the Department of Home Affairs.
10 Ways to Celebrate Refugee Week
Sunday 16 June – Saturday 22 June 2024
Be part of the global celebration of Refugee Week no matter where you are!
The Refugee Council of Australia (RCOA) have put together 10 easy ways to get involved. Celebrate Refugee Week with them.
Here are 10 simple ways you can get involved in the global celebration of Refugee Week no matter where you are
Watch the Refugee Australia Council's video on Facebook
Australian Churches Refugee Taskforce (ACRT) is an activity of the National Council of Churches in Australia (NCCA).
We believe our faith calls us to welcome the stranger and care for the people who find themselves displaced, marginalised or homeless, and those in need of protection. We want to see a compassionate and generous response to welcoming refugees into Australia.
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