The High Court's decision to overturn the government's Malaysia solution swap deal has been applauded by Australia's leading ethnic advocacy group.
The High Court on Wednesday ordered Immigration Minister Chris Bowen and his department not to send asylum seekers to Malaysia.
The government had wanted to send 800 asylum seekers to Malaysia in exchange for 4000 already processed refugees.
The Federation of Ethic Communities' Councils of Australia praised the court's decision, and said it would continue to advocate for "a just and humane way" to process and settle asylum seekers who sought refuge in Australia.
"As migrant communities who have sought the shores of Australia and contributed towards the prosperity of this country, we welcome this decision," FECCA chairman Pino Migliorino said.
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"Today, we can be proud to say that institutions in Australia do respect human rights and our international obligations."
"This decision has ramifications for the concept of offshore processing and we would welcome a reconsideration of this policy."
Mr Migliorino said it was still important to consider the government's commitment to settle 4000 refugees from Malaysia.
"Many families have been waiting to start new lives where they can work and educate their children in Australia," he said.
"FECCA does not want to see this set aside in the wake of the High Court decision.
