UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency has urged the Australian government to immediately move asylum seekers and refugees from Papua New Guinea and Nauru to Australia.
The call was made by UNHCR spokesperson, Catherine Stubberfield at a briefing today in Geneva amid concerns about "a recent worsening of conditions".
"Australia remains responsible under international law for those who have sought its protection and whom it has forcibly transferred to so-called 'offshore processing' facilities," Ms Stubberfield said.
"In the context of deteriorating health and reduced medical care, Australia must act now to prevent further tragedy and loss of life."
Ms Stubberfield pointed out there had been a significant increase of medical evacuations for refugees from Nauru to Australia - more in September this year "than in the preceding two years combined".
She also said there had been several instances of self-harm or attempted suicide in Papua New Guinea in just the past month.
"UNHCR has repeatedly urged that Australia should accept New Zealand's welcome and ongoing offer ... in the absence of any alternatives, UNHCR appeals for all refugees and asylum seekers to be immediately brought from Papua New Guinea and Nauru to Australia."
Opposition leader Bill Shorten told The Guardian Labor remained resolved to stop new boat arrivals but was consulting with the medical community about Nauru.
"If a child needs medical attention and they can't get it on Nauru, they should get in Australia or a third party country," Mr Shorten said.
The UNHCR's call for immediate evacuation echoes strong statements made this week by Medecins Sans Frontieres after the NGO's staff were forced to end their mental health work on Nauru.
"Whilst in my professional opinion there is no therapeutic solution for these patients as long as they are trapped on the island, I fear the withdrawal of MSF's ... healthcare will claim lives," MSF psychiatrist Dr Beth O'Connor said.
