One million permanent humanitarian visas: Calls for change as milestone nears

One Million Permanent Humanitarian Visas: Calls for Change as Milestone Nears

While advocates celebrate Australia's issuance of its one millionth permanent humanitarian visa, experts argue that the country must reconsider its refugee policies. Refugee rights organisations highlight this milestone as a critical moment to improve Australia's response to the global displacement crisis.

Refugee Experiences

Osamah is the first person to arrive in Australia under this new visa program, ending a long period of uncertainty for him.

"Australia's worst policy": Refugees plead with the government to resolve a 13-year limbo.

Political and Advocacy Responses

Greens and refugee advocates have criticized a $400 million deal with Nauru aimed at deporting former detainees.
Discussions continue around the true challenges faced by refugees, foreign students, and individuals arriving by boat.

Summary

This visa milestone invites urgent reflection on Australia's current approach to humanitarian challenges amid ongoing critiques and calls for policy reform.

Credit: imamember/Getty Images

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SBS — 2025-11-09