The federal government says it has delivered on a commitment to move the majority of child asylum seekers out of immigration detention.
Immigration Minister Chris Bowen says there are currently 956 children asylum seekers in the detention system and 58 per cent are now living in community accommodation.
"The government has met this important commitment, with 531 children - both unaccompanied minors and those with family members - currently residing in community-based accommodation," Mr Bowen said on Wednesday.
News that makes sense
Your trusted source for staying up-to-date with the world around you. Get free daily news updates and analysis, straight to your inbox.
Another 57 children will transfer into the community in coming days, making that 62 per cent of children in community-based arrangements, he said.
"This will mean the total number of people in community detention is 1203 - 615 adults and 588 children."
Mr Bowen announced in October his intention to move the majority of children into the community.
He conceded more than 300 children would still be in detention after the next 57 have transferred.
Mr Bowen defended his decision to define 58 per cent as a majority: "Clearly a majority is more than 50 per cent."
He also announced the closure of two temporary detention facilities: the Virginia Palms facility in Brisbane and the Asti Hotel in Darwin.
