Plight of asylum seekers outlined

Australian Education Union South Australian Branch Research Officer Jenni Devereaux addressed Federation's March Council on the AEU Asylum Seekers and Refugees Project in 2003.

The project focussed on issues around children and young people, and their families, held in detention by the Australian Government, and on those living as Temporary Protection Visa (TPV) holders in the Australian community.

Councillors were visibly moved by her descriptions of conditions inside Baxter Detention Centre.

"Security components include cameras, microwave movement detection systems, and chainmesh fencing. An Energised Detection and Deterrent System is supported by insulators fitted to mounting installed on the inner side of the weldmesh fence. The system comprises a series of horizontal, smooth, non-corrosive, high tensile alloy wires positioned 100mm apart.... Anybody touching the wires would receive a short, sharp, harmless shock," Ms Devereaux said.

The experiences of two young detainees were conveyed (including): "We have now been living in Australian detention for three years. These places I have only imagined in my nightmares. We have been imprisoned in a frightening desert camp."

Ms Devereaux described how teacher unions across Australia will "continue to campaign vigorously for an end to mandatory detention and the release of all children from detention, and for improved access to education and TAFE courses and programs for all refugees, whether in detention or Temporary Protection Visa (TPV) holders living in the community".

All members are urged to pursue this vital issue of human rights and social justice by lobbying all members of Parliament in this federal election year.

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Last Modified: 15 Nov 2005