Thirteen years on, there are still people in the 'Fast Track' cohort who are waiting for the Home Affairs Minister to review their cases. Queenscliff RAR believes that people's contributions and commitment to Australia over the past 13 years must be recognised and form a pathway to permanency. This would consider family and community ties, work-related factors, well-being factors and contributions to Australian society over the past 13 years.

The granting of permanent visas will provide these people with Safety, Security and Certainty. Acts of justice and kindness make us all stronger, including governments.

ACTIONS YOU CAN TAKE:

You can help by writing to Hon Tony Burke MP, Minister for Home Affairs and Minister for Immigration & Citizenship with a copy to your local MP.
Tell him in your own words that:
¨ Australians sent a clear message at the Federal Election that they want a society that is inclusive, equitable and kind.

¨ Living in indefinite limbo, and in separation from family, for over 13 years has had a dire effect on people's mental and physical health.  Too many lives have been lost already. 

¨ UN advice states that signatory states should allow asylum seekers who have been living in their countries for a significant amount of time to settle there.

¨ Granting permanent residence status to people in the 'Fast Track' cohort who have been part of, and contributing to, our Australian communities for years will provide these people with safety, security and certainty and will contribute to social cohesion.

¨ People would still have to meet specific identity, health, security and character requirements.

Hon Tony Burke MP, Minister for Home Affairs and Minister for Immigration & Citizenship
PO Box 6022, House of Representatives, Parliament House, Canberra ACT 2600
https://www.homeaffairs.gov.au/help-and-support/departmental-forms/online-forms/contact-the-minister

Send a copy of your letter to
Richard Marles MP or Libby Coker MP (or your local MP if outside of the Geelong area).
Richard.Marles.MP@aph.gov.au
Libby.Coker.MP@aph.gov.au

What to write:

Use some, or all, of the points above to tell Minister Burke why now is the time to act, why taking action is important, and what action should be taken. 

Start your letters by saying something about yourself, to individualise your letter.  Make sure you include your name, address and contact information.