ABOUT LABOR FOR REFUGEES:

Labor for Refugees is a group of Australian Labor Party (ALP) members aiming to enhance the Party's refugee policy. The group was formed on August 31, 2001 - the morning after the Tampa was refused permission to dock at Christmas Island - and to date, more than 80 Victorian ALP branches have officially endorsed Labor for Refugees policies, as have very many individual members. Labor for Refugees (Victoria) is the local branch of a national organisation with branches in all states, and supports changes in ALP policy compatible with three policy objectives:

1. All asylum seekers to be treated with compassion, justice and in accordance with Australia’s international obligations.

2. The right of all onshore asylum seekers to have their status as refugees assessed on Australian soil, under the Australian legal system.

3. Asylum seekers to be accommodated in government run and urban-based reception centres. When a formal application for Refugee status has been made and security, health and identity checks are complete, asylum seekers are free to move out of reception centres and to stay in supportive communities. The time in detention not to exceed 30 days without judicial review and the right of appeal.

If you agree with these basic human rights we invite your branch to endorse the policies, and individuals to join Labor for Refugees using the membership forms. You will then receive regular email updates as well as occasional newsletters and will be invited to attend related functions. There is no charge for membership.