Refugee rights organisations voiced apprehension over the new family reunification rules

Organisations supporting refugees and people seeking protection have strongly criticised new family reunification rules.

In addition to being forced to the two-year waiting time before refugees can apply for family reunification, the new rules require that refugees have not received certain social welfare supports including carer’s allowance, one-parent family allowance, and disability allowance during that period. Those who have received any housing supports, including Housing Assistance Payment (HAP), are also prevented from applying for family reunification. NGOs voiced concerns also on the income thresholds applicants must also meet before they can be reunited with their families. These same rules apply to unaccompanied children seeking to reunite with their parents, unless the Minister decides to waive the requirements.