Selective releases not enough, says Amnesty International report

Amnesty International today released a preliminary report which presents a compelling case for changing Australia's mandatory detention regime.

The report highlights how the selective release of some long-term detainees fails to address the unjust and inhumane nature of Australia's immigration detention system.

Noting the current changes by the Government, including the planned release of some asylum seekers who have been locked up for years, Amnesty International says that the Government's "quick fix" approach fails to tackle the core issue needed to protect human rights.

"Indefinite detention in Australia will remain an appalling reality until the Government takes the initiative to change Australia's Migration Act to prohibit the mandatory, arbitrary and indefinite detention of refugees and asylum seekers," said Graham Thom, Refugee Coordinator for Amnesty International Australia.

Australia's mandatory detention regime enables some the world's most vulnerable people - including children, family groups and stateless people to be detained indefinitely. The report addresses the impact of this policy and makes a series of detailed recommendations for change.

The report calls for a complete policy overhaul incorporating a presumption against detention. Only people who need to be detained - such as those who pose a security risk - should be detained, while others must be given humane alternatives. These include immediate release into the community and access to all appropriate services and entitlements.

Amnesty International finds that Australia's mandatory detention regime violates a series of fundamental human rights, including:

  • civil and political rights
  • economic, social and cultural rights
  • children's rights and
  • refugee rights.

Amnesty International urges the Australian Government to implement the recommendations contained in the report to ensure that refugees and asylum seekers cannot be detained indefinitely and to restore Australia's reputation as a nation that respects human rights.

For further information, or to arrange an interview with Dr Thom, please contact Barbie Dutter, Media Coordinator, Amnesty International Australia on (02) 9217 7620 or 0422 869 439.