Dozens of non-profit groups, multicultural advocacy organisations, and social service agencies have called on the Australian federal government to reconsider proposed changes that would limit work rights for temporary migrants.
Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke is reportedly developing new measures to reduce overseas migration levels to Australia. A package of changes, which is awaiting cabinet deliberations, is said to include new rules that would remove some rights for temporary migrants seeking protection once their claim has been rejected.
Nearly 150 organisations, including the Asylum Seeker Resource Centre and Jesuit Social Services, have sent an open letter to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. The letter warns that removing work rights would strip individuals of income and independence, potentially leaving them unable to afford rent, food, or other basic necessities. Instead, the letter advocates for investment in faster application processing, legal assistance, and work rights.
The letter states, "At a time when multiculturalism and migrant communities are facing growing attacks and scapegoating, Australia needs leadership that brings people together, upholds fairness and ensures our policies do not further harm communities already being targeted."