'Hundreds' of boat people sent back: PM

25 February 2010

Australia has sent back 'hundreds and hundreds' of asylum seekers during Labor's term in government, Prime Minister Kevin Rudd says. Of those 141 had been unauthorised boat arrivals, reports the Sydney Morning Herald. Read more...

Asylum seekers intercepted off Ashmore

24 February 2010

Australian authorities have intercepted another boat carrying asylum seekers off the Western Australia coast, reports ABC news. It is believed 47 people were on board the boat stopped by an Australian Customs ship near Ashmore Islands this morning. Read more...

Christmas Island at breaking point: Frank Brennan

27 January 2010

The head of Kevin Rudd's bill of rights consultation committee, Frank Brennan, has called on the government to transfer asylum-seekers to the mainland, saying conditions on Christmas Island now resemble those seen in the darkest days of the Howard-era. Read more...

Abbott blinded by Howard's brutal immigration principle

26 January 2010

Tony Abbott's recent speech on immigration policy provides helpful material for Australia Day reflection, writes Andrew Hamilton in Eureka Street. 

JRS responds to Haiti earthquake

18 January 2010

Jesuit Refugee Service staff from the Dominican Republic are coordinating relief assistance to the thousands of families affected by the earthquake in Haiti. Jesuits in Haiti are working with the local communities in providing relief and comfort, and in the search for loved ones.

Jesuits in Haiti were spared the worst consequences of the earthquake that has killed up to 200,000 people. One Jesuit was injured in the earthquake but none were killed. One of our buildings was destroyed and others suffered some damage. Generally we are in a good position to help the masses of suffering people around us.

Australians can support the Jesuit work by donating to the Jesuit Mission Haiti Appeal. Donations can be made by calling (02) 9955 8585, by sending a cheque to PO Box 193 North Sydney 2059, or online here (choose Greatest Need from campaign drop down menu).