Australian churches call for a humane bipartisan approach for asylum seekers

The National Council of Churches in Australia (NCCA) has welcomed the High Court ruling that overturns the Government’s Malaysia “solution” and calls for a humane bipartisan approach for asylum seekers and refugees.

“The churches have repeatedly called for a bipartisan approach concerning refugees and asylum seekers which ensures that we fulfil our international obligations to a high standard and enhances Australia’s reputation as a just and humane global citizen,” said the Rev. Tara Curlewis, NCCA General Secretary.

“The Government is urged to ensure that the human rights of all refugees and asylum seekers are safeguarded. We therefore ask the Government to meet Australia’s responsibilities by:

1. treating asylum seekers humanely regardless of how they arrive in Australia,
2. processing asylum applications expeditiously, and
3. accommodating and processing in Australia asylum seekers who reach Australian territory.”

Ms Curlewis said, “The churches once again remind the Government and all Australians that asylum seekers are not illegal immigrants and have rights under international law to seek protection from persecution.

“Australia has committed, as a signatory to the Refugee Convention, to assess each asylum seeker case according to agreed criteria and take this commitment seriously.”