The Australian Council of Social Service has welcomed Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s confirmation that Australia’s humanitarian intake will remain at 20,000 places a year.
“This decision is an important line in the sand at a time of unprecedented humanitarian need,” said ACOSS CEO Cassandra Goldie.
“Global displacement is at its highest level since the end of the Second World War, with millions of people searching for somewhere safe to live.
“20,000 refugees per year is a modest number, making up just three to five per cent of arrivals. Reducing it would be unconscionable at this time.”
Dr Goldie said embracing refugees is a core part of Australia’s national character.
“Australia has a proud tradition of welcoming people seeking safety.
“Refugees, people seeking asylum and migrants are a vital part of our social, cultural and economic fabric.
“They are neighbours, friends, family, volunteers and community leaders, in cities and regional communities right across the nation.
“The government must strongly reject a race-the-bottom on migration. We urge the government to take up the broad-based proposal for holding a National Migration Summit.”
Click here for the joint statement, Beyond Politics: A National Migration Summit for Australia’s future.
