ASRC Statement on the passing of the Albanese Government’s Brutal Bills

“The ASRC is profoundly shocked to bear witness to tonight’s outrageous and unbelievably low attack on the people, families, children and communities we serve. It is a racist agenda that is reminiscent of the darkest days of our White Australia policy.

“The Albanese Government and the Coalition blatantly colluded in the ultimate betrayal of Australia’s multicultural communities, people who are our neighbours, our friends, loved ones, co-workers, school mates and family members. They have betrayed the very communities that have helped shape and build this country into what it is today.

“Today, our two major political parties sent a clear message that they are prepared to punish refugees, people seeking asylum and migrant communities by tearing families apart, jailing people unjustly, detaining them indefinitely and deporting them back to the very persecution and harm they fled.

“It is deplorable, political game-playing that causes devastating harm, and it is not the type of leadership the Australian public wants or voted for.

“Our clear message to those political leaders today is: You are wrong and the fight is not over.

“We know Australians everywhere take enormous pride in the diversity of this beautiful country and will continue to stand up for refugees, people seeking asylum and migrants. We will continue to send a message that refugees are welcome, that people have the right to seek safety and to be treated with dignity.

“The fight for us is not over, but our priority right now is wrapping around the communities we work with who will be left reeling by this news today.

“From here on, it’s more important than ever that we come together, support one another and continue to fight for the values of welcome and diversity that Australia holds so close.”

Kon Karapanagiotidis
CEO, Asylum Seeker Resource Centre