Every year, Australia accepts a substantial number of refugees and other displaced persons as part of its immigration intake. This Government is committed to maintaining the integrity of the migration program. The Government reaffirms its existing policy of detaining persons who arrive in Australia without authorisation. This policy ensures that unauthorised arrivals do not enter the Australian community unless their claims to do so have been properly assessed and found to justify that entry. Australia's system for assessing refugee applications is fair and thorough.
Applicants have the benefit of a two tiered processing system providing a primary and review stage.
Primary determinations are made on a case by case basis and applicants are entitled to seek a review of that decision from the independent statutory body, the Refugee Review Tribunal. The Government shares the concerns of the United Nations Human Rights Committee that prolonged or indefinite detention is undesirable. The Government has already sought to minimise the length of time a person may spend in immigration detention. Applications for refugee status from persons in detention are given top priority. Additionally, the processing system has been streamlined to minimise delays.