Refugee Intake

Letter to the Editor - The Age
4 July 2005

Dear Sir/Madam

While we welcome debate about Australia’s Refugee and Humanitarian program, it is important not to overlook some key facts about the current intake (Refugee Council rubbishes Howard’s boat people claim, 2/7/05).

Australia will resettle about 13 000 refugees and humanitarian entrants this year. About 70 per cent come from various parts of Africa and the rest are from the Middle East and South East Asia.

The refugee component of the program is the largest it has been in 20 years.

Last year this component rose from 4000 to 6000 places, while the overall program increased from 12 000 to 13 000 places.

The department works closely with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) to decide who should come to Australia.

Australia is one of the top three countries in the world that accepts refugees. The nation will spend about $2 billion over four years on support and services for these people.

Assistance includes cultural orientation assistance before departure, escorts to Australia and intensive reception and case management services on arrival.

Kym Charlton
Acting Director
Public Affairs
DIMIA