A forum was held on Wednesday evening to discuss the topic of refugees and settlement in Tasmania.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Federal Bass candidates to speak at Launceston's Door of Hope incumbent Liberal MHR Bridget Archer, Labor candidate Ross Hart and Greens candidate Cecily Rosol. They were also joined by Taya Ketelaar-Jones from the Tasmanian Refugee Legal Service.
The region's Afghan community sponsored the forum for voters to meet the Bass candidates and ask questions. Launceston Hazara Association president Yousef Mohammadi said it was important for refugees to know how politicians plan to help.
"Over the past eight to nine years we have built a strong and vibrant Afghan/Hazara community here with the help of community volunteers, and over 65 families have made this beautiful regional city our home.
Most of us are now Australian citizens," he said.
Tasmanian Refugee Legal Service principal lawyer and chief executive Patrick O'Connor said Tasmania had an important role to play in providing safety and security for refugees.
"This topic is important to Tasmanians because it involves the reunification of the family unit. Many people, who are Tasmanian residents, are seeking to bring their children, mothers, fathers, brothers and sisters to safety to Tasmania to join them here in Tasmania."
Nikita McGuire
Born and raised in Launceston, Nikita is passionate about the stories that matter to locals. When she is not at work you can find Nikita adventuring around Tasmania or spending time with family and friends. If you have story tips or events in the Arts and Events sector, please contact Nikita at nikita.mcguire@austcommunitymedia.com.au or on 0437 031 581
Born and raised in Launceston, Nikita is passionate about the stories that matter to locals. When she is not at work you can find Nikita adventuring around Tasmania or spending time with family and friends. If you have story tips or events in the Arts and Events sector, please contact Nikita at nikita.mcguire@austcommunitymedia.com.au or on 0437 031 581
