Discussion Paper Australia’s Humanitarian Program 2023-24
The St Vincent de Paul Society National Council of Australia urges a significant increase in Australia's Humanitarian Program, aligning with UNHCR (United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees) priorities and rejecting discriminatory practices.
The submission advocates for reforms, including expanding community-based sponsorships and implementing fairer processes for rejected asylum seekers. The Society urges adoption of the Australian Labor Party National Platform, and safeguarding Afghan individuals with previously close ties to Australia’s defence forces.
The Society recommends increasing the annual humanitarian program intake to 27,000 by 2025-26, augmenting community-sponsored refugee programs, ending the flawed fast-track system, the temporary suspension of detention or deportation, reforms in family reunion policies, and increased funding and wider eligibility for Status Resolution Support Services.
Additionally, the submission highlights the importance of collaborative efforts with Southeast Asian nations to better assess people seeking asylum and refugees.