One million permanent humanitarian visas: Calls for change as milestone nears

One Million Permanent Humanitarian Visas: Calls for Change as Milestone Nears

Advocates are celebrating Australia issuing its one millionth permanent humanitarian visa. At the same time, experts emphasize the need to reassess Australia's approach to supporting refugees amid rising global displacement.

Refugee rights organisations argue that reaching this visa milestone is an important moment to reflect on how Australia can enhance its response to mass humanitarian crises.

New Visa Pathway and Personal Stories

Osamah is the first person to arrive in Australia under this new visa pathway, ending a prolonged period of uncertainty.

Ongoing Challenges and Criticism

Refugees have described their 13-year wait in limbo as a result of "Australia's worst policy," urging the government to resolve this issue.
The Greens and refugee advocates criticize a $400 million deal with Nauru aimed at deporting former detainees.
Many face difficulties adjusting after migrating, including refugees, foreign students, and those arriving by boat.

"Australia's worst policy": Refugees plead with government to resolve 13-year limbo

Greens, refugee advocates criticise $400m deal with Nauru to deport former detainees

Published

9 November 2025, 6:43 pm

Credit: imamember/Getty Images

Author’s summary: Australia's milestone one millionth humanitarian visa highlights successes but calls urgently for policy reforms to better protect displaced people and end prolonged uncertainty.

SBS — 2025-11-09