The Greens welcome the Government’s decision to scrap Ministerial Directions 80 and 83, which will clear the way for processing of applications for family reunion visas from refugees who arrived in Australia by boat.
“This will address one aspect of the humanitarian crisis deliberately created by bipartisan immigration policies,” Greens Immigration spokesperson Senator Nick McKim said.
“The Greens have been pressuring successive governments to remove these discriminatory and unfair Directions, which have seen families unnecessarily separated for more than a decade.”
“However, this decision alone is not enough to resolve the broader issues facing refugees and people seeking asylum in Australia.”
“Many of these refugees have suffered trauma and abuse, and the government must provide adequate support to help them heal and rebuild their lives.”
“We now need to ensure that these family reunion visa applications are processed without delay.”
“The Greens also call on the government to deliver on their election promise to abolish Temporary Protection Visas and to provide a pathway to permanent residency for all refugees and asylum seekers in Australia.”
“The government must put an end to the ongoing uncertainty and trauma faced by refugees and asylum seekers in Australia.”
“It’s time to provide them with the security and stability they deserve.”