Ruth Ratcliffe, Sydney
Twelve-hundred and seventy four Auburn residents will be unable to vote in the upcoming federal election because they are holders of temporary protection visas, according to the Socialist Alliance candidate for Reid, Lisa Macdonald.
"Just under 2% of the electorate have been disenfranchised", said Macdonald. "Unlike permanent residents, who are also unable to vote, it is extremely difficult for TPV holders to become citizens and have a say in our community."
"It's not really surprising that the Liberal government does not want these refugees to have a say as they have worked very hard to prevent them having access to the types of services most Australians take for granted.
"They have no access to subsidised language classes or higher education. They have no access to the government's Job Network to help them find work. They have only very limited access to social security.
"Beyond this, they have no permanency whatsoever. After their 30-month visa expires they can be arrested at any moment and deported. It's hard to build a life in a new country when you don't know if you will be thrown out in less than three years."
"It's no wonder the Liberals don't want TPV holders to have a voice, because they certainly wouldn't be voting for the government."
The Socialist Alliance calls for the abolition of the TPV system and supports full rights for refugees and asylum seekers.
From Green Left Weekly, September 22, 2004.
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