The migrants in Australia likely to be hit hardest by coronavirus

Those advocating for unlawful migrants (not pictured) say they are often employed on Australian farms

Those advocating for unlawful migrants (not pictured) say they are often employed on Australian farms Source: AAP

There are believed to be tens of thousands of unlawful migrants in Australia. Often hesitant to seek medical care due to fears of deportation, and living together in overcrowded accommodation, those supporting them say they are particularly vulnerable during the COVID-19 pandemic.


Tens of thousands of unlawful migrants in Australia are at risk of destitution and being unable to access adequate healthcare during the coronavirus pandemic, warn advocates.

They're calling for greater protections for non-citizens.

The Federal Government has previously estimated that more than 64,000 illegal migrants are currently living and working in Australia.

Most have overstayed their visa, but the true number of undocumented residents is unknown.

It is because of this invisibility that advocates say this group will be particularly hard hit by the impacts of COVID-19.


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