Minister Fast-Tracks Visas for 800 Palestinian Refugees to Receive Work and Medicare Rights
The Home Affairs Minister, Tony Burke, expressed his happiness in granting visas to 800 Palestinians, describing it as “some of the happiest meetings” he has ever had.
Australia’s Home Affairs Department has expedited visas for 800 Palestinians, offering them work opportunities, Medicare benefits, and assistance in finding a place to rent.
The Minister stated that he had directed visas for half of the Palestinians who entered Australia on tourist visas to be switched to humanitarian visas.
According to Burke, individuals expressed concerns to his office after their 12-month visitor visas expired.
These individuals have been transitioned from a temporary visitor visa to a 786 Temporary (Humanitarian Concern) visa valid for three years.
The temporary humanitarian stay visas provide benefits such as work and study rights, access to Medicare, and special benefits payments.
Those on this pathway also receive support services including essential clothing, food, short-term accommodation, and assistance in leasing a home.
Additionally, new temporary residents receive support for school enrolments, help in finding long-term accommodation, and referrals to health and family support services.
Employment support, assistance in starting a business, English language learning, and a package of basic household goods are also available to these individuals.
The temporary humanitarian visa pathway involves a two-step process, beginning with a 449 Humanitarian Stay (Temporary) visa before converting to the subclass 786 visa.
Arrivals must meet criteria such as health, character, and security checks to be granted these visas.
The Australian government aims to continue offering temporary humanitarian stay visas until the end of 2024.
Shadow Home Affairs Minister James Paterson has raised concerns about potential Hamas sympathizers entering the country through the Gaza visa scheme.
Opposition Leader Peter Dutton has also expressed worries about the risks associated with offering visas to Palestinian refugees, emphasizing the difference in security risks between Palestinians and Israelis.
