The Government is increasing the intake of Refugees from 13,750 people to 27,000 people, within the next five years.

The Department of Immigration and Citizenship has recently announced that will accept an extra 6,250 refugees in 2012 – 2013, as part of the government new plan to encourage legal resettlements of displaced individuals.

The Labour government announced it would increase Australia’s annual humanitarian intake from 13,750 to 27,000 within the next five years.

Immigration Minister Chris Bowen says the extra resettlements will come from priority regions in the Middle East and Africa, with the increase in places targeting those in most need, including those vulnerable people around the world.

Minister Chris Bowen has stated that his government will provide more opportunities for vulnerable and displaced people to pursue safer resettlement options in Australia as part of Australia’s humanitarian and refugee program.

This would reinforce the government’s “no-advantage” policy by showing that no special treatment would be given to those arriving by boat.

Mr Bowen said the decision will change the lives of people languishing around the world, and who are in desperate need of resettlement in Australia.

With the humanitarian program increased by more than 40 per cent, Australia is now the second largest resettlement country in the world behind the US, Mr Bowen said.

The increase in resettlements will include up to 2000 African refugees, and 3800 Middle East refugees, and 2000 Afghans from countries in the region.

Call Mr George Hanna on 02 9587 0458 during business hours to organise a free consultation for a Refugee Visa, or send an email to ghanna@gmhlegal.com .