On Sunday 27 August, the Federal Government confirmed its intention to cut income and housing support for 370 asylum seekers brought to Australia from Nauru and Manus Island for medical care. Some are here as a result of attacks and more than 20 women are survivors of sexual assault or rape in Nauru.
Approximately three-quarters are families, including 116 children. Fifty are babies born in Australia. The remainder are single men and women.
Most have been receiving support to live in the community (housing and approximately $200 per fortnight for food, clothing etc). The children have been able to go to school although the adults have been barred from working.
Some have already been notified that their financial support has now ceased and their housing support will end in three weeks. The potential health consequences of this decision are significant. Aside from the mental health impacts of enhanced fear and uncertainty, access to essential pharmaceuticals will be not possible without support from charitable organisations, such as that provided through the Cabrini Asylum Seeker and Refugee Health Hub.
We stand for compassionate treatment of asylum seekers. We invite you to stand alongside us.
See refugeecouncil.org.au for further information. #letthemstay
Dr Michael WalshChief Executive
More information
The Cabrini Asylum Seeker and Refugee Health Hub in Brunswick was officially opened in April 2016 – for more information about services provided at the hub visit Asylum Seeker and Refugee Health Hub web pages.