Standing up for refugee rights

People who come to Australia seeking asylum are not migrants seeking a “better life.” Asylum seekers are people escaping some form of discrimination or persecution, and for a number, even an immediate threat of death. They are not acting illegally.

As a signatory to the United Nations Convention on the Status of Refugees, Australia has undertaken a legally binding obligation to deal fairly with their applications for refugee status. Our government has signed and ratified the international treaties which establish the rights of an asylum seeker.

Loreto Sisters work with a range of refugee and asylum seeker organisations providing support and English tutorials for refugees in their communities. Loreto Sisters continue to advocate for the rights of refugees and asylum seekers.

We call on the federal government to develop a more compassionate legislation and practice in their response to asylum seekers.

We call on the federal government and politicians from all parties to provide leadership and challenge us Australians to be our better selves, to be people of truth, compassion, generosity, tolerance and acceptance.

We call on the federal government, politicians and the media to provide accurate information about refugees and asylum seekers.
 

JPIC Statement 1 September 2011

The Loreto Sisters applaud the decision of the High Court in regard to asylum seekers coming to Australia for refuge and protection. In essence the High Court determined that asylum seekers will have to be processed in Australia unless an alternative receiving country can provide all the appropriate processes and protections.

The High Court ruled that the Minister for Immigration is the legal guardian of unaccompanied minors, responsible for their care and protection. They cannot be removed to another country without the express, written permission of the Minister.

This is a legal and moral victory which, hopefully, leaves the way open for more positive dialogue on the most humane way of dealing with people who flee conflict and persecution and ensures that asylum seekers are processed promptly on our shores.

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