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DEFENDING ASYLUM SEEKERS
THE DEMOCRATS' RECORD
No other Party is as vocal and active on human rights issues within the Parliament and the community as the Democrats are.
For almost 30 years we have advocated on behalf of asylum seekers and refugees.
The Australian Democrats continue to support a non-discriminatory immigration program that gives priority to refugees and family reunion applicants. We still strongly support multiculturalism and believe all of us have a part to play in building a strong, safe, harmonious and prosperous society.
We oppose mandatory detention for all unauthorised arrivals.
We oppose Temporary Protection Visas for genuine refugees.
We opposed all legislation to repel asylum seekers on the high seas, and continue to work to put an end to the Pacific solution.
We believe Australia has a moral responsibility, as well as a duty under international law, to provide haven for refugees and not send people back to persecution or death.
Our Record
Download a summary of the Democrats policies and actions to protect the rights of refugees 1977-2006 [124kb pdf]
Our Actions
ARTICLE: Out of sight, out of mind? - Senator Andrew Bartlett, Online Opinion, 2 May 2007
SPEECH: Refugee Action Collective - Speak Out - Senator Andrew Bartlett, 8 Aug 2006
ARTICLE: Playing chicken with desperate people's lives - Senator Natasha Stott Despoja, The Advertiser, 14 August 2006
ARTICLE: Turning our backs on the vulnerable - Senator Natasha Stott Despoja, The Advertiser, 19 June 2006 | 
