Rethinking resettlement and family reunion in Australia – Alternative Law Journal
By ALHR Refugee Rights Subcommittee Co-Chairs Khanh Hoang and Rebecca Dowd and Sahar Okhovat and Asher Hirsch, Refugee Council of Australia
Abstract
Family reunion remains a significant issue for refugee communities in Australia. Family separation causes significant psychological, social and economic harm to displaced communities. Instead of supporting the reunion of refugee families, the current law and policies make it increasingly difficult, if not impossible, for refugees to bring their family members to Australia. This article outlines the barriers to family reunion for refugees under Australian law and policy and addresses how such policies could be reformed to better facilitate reunification.
Cite as: Sahar Okhovat, Asher Hirsch, Khanh Hoang & Rebecca Dowd, ‘Rethinking Resettlement and Family Reunion in Australia’, (2017) 42(4) Alternative Law Journal 273