Series 2

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2012 TV Week Logie Award Winner

6 Prominent Australians

6 Outspoken Views | 1 life-risking journey

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Factsheets

Series 2 Series 1 Factsheets Places

There are many myths and misconceptions about asylum seekers and refugees in Australia. Are they illegal immigrants or queue jumpers? Do they receive extra social security benefits? The following factsheets offer some insights into some of the issues that are central to the public debate about immigration, refugees and asylum seekers.

Fact SheetWhat social security benefits do refugees receive?

A refugee who has permanent residency in Australia receives exactly the same social security benefits as any Australian-born person in the same circumstances.

Fact SheetAre refugees who arrive by boat queue jumpers?

Applying for protection onshore is not a means of “jumping the queue” or bypassing the “proper” process of applying for protection.

Fact SheetDoes Australia take in its 'fair share' of refugees?

Compared to other refugee-hosting countries, Australia receives a very small number of asylum applications.

Fact SheetHow safe are refugee camps?

Some refugee camps hold hundreds of thousands of people, in conditions that are often extremely difficult.

Fact SheetAre asylum seekers who arrive by boat illegal immigrants?

Asylum seekers who arrive in Australia by boat are neither engaging in illegal activity, nor are they immigrants

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