Premier urged to show leadership on refugees

Shadow Minister for Multicultural Affairs Madeleine Ogilvie today used question time today to press for the Tasmanian Government to follow the lead of NSW and support the resettlement of refugees.

“It has long been Tasmanian Labor’s position that we can do more in the humanitarian space to support refugees,” Ms Ogilvie said.

“We now know that NSW will settle up to 30,000 refugees in NSW regional towns under a deal signed by Liberal Premier Mike Baird.

“We are aware that substantial funding will flow into regional areas to support this deal. Many Tasmanian towns could do with Federal funding to upgrade community facilities.

“Given some Federal Liberals are ready to adopt a more humane approach, I have called on the Premier to do the same for Tasmania.

“Today in response to my question, the Premier disclosed that discussions were indeed underway. I have sought a further commitment that the Labor Opposition will be included in that dialogue.

“Of course our social services and refugee support services will need to be robustly funded and legal aid funding upgraded. This will benefit all Tasmanians using these services.”
Madeleine Ogilvie MP Shadow Minister for Multicultural Affairs