THE Albanese Government must not capitulate to Pauline Hanson’s politics of hate by stripping rights from people seeking asylum in an attempt to appear tougher on migration.
Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke last week postponed a National Press Club address where he was expected to announce sweeping migration changes, reportedly including further restrictions on the work rights of people seeking asylum, and their ability to appeal protection decisions.
The reported proposals represent an alarming attempt by the Labor Government to accommodate One Nation’s anti-migrant agenda, rather than show strong leadership by challenging the fear, division and misinformation on which it depends.
Removing work rights for people seeking asylum would deliberately force people into poverty and dependence on charities. It would prevent people from supporting themselves and their families, contributing to their communities and rebuilding their lives in safety.
The government must instead ensure that people can support themselves and their families while they wait for their claims to be processed.
Where people are unable to work, they must have access to an adequate safety net so they are not forced into poverty, homelessness or reliance on overstretched charities.
The Albanese Government must reject the deliberate scapegoating of migrants, refugees and people seeking asylum, and directly challenge the billionaire-funded misinformation campaign fuelling anti-migrant fear and division.
At a time when some politicians are seeking to divide Australians for political gain, our government has a responsibility to bring people together.
Australia needs leadership that promotes unity and compassion, defends the dignity of every person and upholds the Australian value of fairness.
When governments attack migrants, they are sending a message to everyone in the country – that they have no serious plan to make life better for any of us, and they are looking for distractions.
We deserve better from our leaders.
Regards,
Jana Favero, Deputy CEO,
Asylum Seeker Resource Centre.
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