Togolese settlement in Ballarat

Letter to the Editor – Ballarat Courier
4 October

Dear Sir/Madam

It was concerning to read your editorial (Let more Togolese start their new lives in Ballarat, 1/10/07) querying the number of Togolese humanitarian entrants who are expected to be settled in Ballarat.

The Department of Immigration and Citizenship continues to be committed to the establishment of humanitarian settlement in Ballarat and has worked with the local community to achieve the settlement of the four families who have arrived since May.

Your editorial questions if the original plan — to settle about 10 families in the town — is still happening. The answer is: yes, it is. The project was always intended to take place over a 12 month period and 10 families will arrive throughout this period.

The number of families settled to date is on target for meeting this outcome.

There is a number of reasons for staggering arrivals over this period. First, it is important that the establishment of a new community is a carefully planned and managed process.

Second, it is important to note that the processing of refugee cases offshore is complex and can take time. Medical, character and other clearances take place prior to refugees travelling to Australia and this affects when families can be settled.

The composition of Australia's 13 000-place humanitarian programme is not a factor in the settlement of families in Ballarat, and the department continues to identify families for settlement in the city.

The Ballarat community should be commended for the warmth and generosity it has shown in assisting refugees. It is truly gratifying to see that some of the world's most vulnerable people have the opportunity to begin a new life in such a welcoming and vibrant location.

Sandi Logan
National Communications Manager
Department of Immigration and Citizenship