Hazara Nation

The Age

Australia's refugee intake will rise for the first time in two years, with an emphasis on accommodating Iraqis and Africans in need, Immigration Minister Chris Evans says.

There will be a one-off increase of 500 places in 2009 to help those pushed out of their homeland by the war in Iraq, and a permanent increase of 750 extra positions in 2009-10.
"We are committed to helping people in vulnerable situations from around the world, in particular Iraqi nationals and refugees in Africa who are unable to return to their homes," Senator Evans said in a statement.

The total Australian refugee intake in 2008-09 will be 13,500, up 500.

In 2009-10 there will be an increase of 750 places in the special humanitarian program, raising the numbers in that program alone to 7,750 and the total refugee intake to 13,750.

"The offshore component of the 2008-09 humanitarian program will focus on refugees from Africa, Asia and the Middle East," Senator Evans said.

The immigration budget also contains $42 million to offer resettlement in Australia to Iraqis who have been employed in Iraq by the Australian government.

"Due to the personal security situation these people will face as Australia withdraws its combat forces from southern Iraq, this policy will give them the opportunity to start a new life in Australia," Senator Evans said.

The government has also used the budget to announce its long-promised plan to scrap the temporary protection visas introduced by the former government.

From early next financial year, people found to be refugees will be handed a visa regardless of how they entered Australia.

About 1,000 refugees who remain on the temporary visas will have their status sorted out "now", Senator Evans said.

"Provided they meet security and character requirements, they will be granted permanent residency in Australia and will not need to have their protection claims reassessed," Senator Evans said.