Australia’s humanitarian programme 2016-17: discussion paper

Australia operates a dedicated Humanitarian Programme that offers resettlement for refugees and others overseas who are in humanitarian need, and protection for people who arrive lawfully in Australia and engage Australia’s protection obligations. Each year, the Australian Government seeks the views of the Australian public on the Humanitarian Programme. These views are taken into consideration in programme planning and development. We have released the Humanitarian Programme 2016-17 discussion paper that outlines how the Humanitarian Programme currently operates and provides information on its management, size and composition over previous years. Note that regional processing arrangements and Australia’s management of the illegal maritime arrival legacy caseload are not within the scope of this discussion paper

Becoming Australian: a review of southern Sudanese students’ educational experiences

This research presents a review of the literature around meeting students’ learning needs in Australian schools. It is referenced to one group of students with refugee experience who have been in Australian schools for over 15 years; students with a background of oracy from Southern Sudan. The development of psychological health and literacy competencies are two of the most critical and complex responsibilities undertaken by education, and, in the case of these students two of the most significant when considered in relation to successful settlement, acculturation and assimilation. In presenting this literature, the bigger picture of how schools can fail, not only these students, but for any number of students from diverse backgrounds, becomes startlingly obvious, as do the ways in which the current political agenda inherent in the public education system in Australia privileges students of specific class and culture. Finally, recommendations are made regarding the development of policy and the concentration on pedagogical practices which acknowledge and respect the strengths and capabilities of this group of students

Australian citizenship - your right, your responsibility

Citizenship is a cornerstone of Australia’s inclusive and pluralist democracy. Together we have built a modern nation on the idea that people can get ahead if they are prepared to ‘have a go’. Still, in a world in which terrorists are reaching out to our community, we cannot be complacent about our future as a strong, safe and cohesive society. It is time for a national conversation about the role of citizenship in shaping our future. There are many ways to become an Australian citizen. Regardless of how we gain it, Australian citizenship is an extraordinary privilege requiring a continuing commitment to this country. Australian citizens enjoy privileges, rights and fundamental responsibilities. We need to ask ourselves whether the responsibilities of Australian citizenship are well enough known and understood. Do we do enough to promote the value of citizenship, particularly among our young people? Have we got the balance right between the safety of our community and the rights of the individual? How should we deal with citizens who act against the best interests of our country? As a nation, we have found unity in our diversity and respect in our differences. We should continue to welcome people to make this country their home. That is non-negotiable. But our welcome cannot be a one-way street. All Australians should respect the values of freedom, democracy, the rule of law and mutual respect. Regardless of our heritage, as citizens, our first duty is to Australia. What does the threat from terrorism mean for our efforts to realise a strong, safe and prosperous nation? How might we all develop a greater appreciation of Australian citizenship and its privileges and obligations?   Questions are included throughout this paper as conversation starters. Your views on these and other thoughts you have on the value of citizenship in Australia are important. The Commonwealth Government wants to hear from you