Do you want refugees to be banned from Australia?

Do you want refugees to be banned from Australia?

How do you feel about the Federal Government proposing a lifetime ban on some asylum seekers?

The Turnbull Government wants anyone who attempts to reach Australia illegally by boat, to never be allowed to set foot on Australian soil. How you feel about such a restrictive, hard-line policy is probably summed up by this fact: One Nation senator Pauline Hanson supports the Government’s move.

Australia used to be called the “lucky country” but it might have become the “unlucky country for anyone whose personal circumstances lead them to challenge the strict border controls of the Federal Government.” As we wait to hear more about our elected representatives clamping down harder and harder on refugees and asylum seekers, it is staggering that our national anthem still contains these words:

Beneath our radiant Southern Cross,
We’ll toil with hearts and hands;
To make this Commonwealth of ours
Renowned of all the lands;
For those who’ve come across the seas
We’ve boundless plains to share;
With courage let us all combine
To advance Australia fair.
In joyful strains then let us sing
“Advance Australia fair!”

“For those who’ve come across the seas, we’ve boundless plains to share”? Not according to the Turnbull Government or Pauline Hanson.

If you are fired up or angry or disappointed at what our Federal Government is proposing, why not let them know?

The Uniting Church has developed various resources for you to use in your community, or to contact key members of our Government. God’s Word calls Christians to respect authority (Romans 13) yet stand up to evil with good (Romans 12). Follow the links below to discover ways of being able to do that — and raise your voice for those who won’t be allowed to have one.

Social Justice Forum

Head to the Give Hope site and find out how to email your MP or take action in your local area.

Uniting Justice

More information and reports, to help you understand the issues.

Share

1 thought on “Do you want refugees to be banned from Australia?”

  1. This is great, but don’t start the article with the incorrect statement that those seeking asylum came illegally by boat… there is nothing illigal in this action.

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Scroll to Top