Calls to rethink Australia's asylum policy

Several prominent Australians from a range of fields have come together to call for a rethink on asylum seekers.

The group - consisting of lawyers, refugees, a priest and a former Defence Chief - contributed to a new book entitled “Refugees and asylum seekers: Finding a better way”.

The 24 essays explore how Australia can reframe the refugee debate to be more humane and inclusive.

Contributors insist it is not political.

Their views and recommendations differ, but all want a change in the public discourse around asylum seekers.

The book was the brainchild of think-tank Australia 21.

The book's release comes as the federal government introduces a code of conduct for asylum-seekers living in Australia as a condition of their bridging visa renewals. 

The code has come under fierce criticism from refugee advocates who say it criminalises asylum seekers.


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1 min read

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By Shalailah Medhora

Source: SBS


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