Social work with refugees and asylum seekers : an ever-changing partnership with the law

This chapter provides an important framework for the manner in which refugees and asylum seekers are dealt with in the law and the impacts that can have on them. The chapter presents a summary of the complex legal systems and procedures that asylum seekers and refugees must navigate in Australia, and that social workers and others seeking to support them need to be aware of. The chapter commences with a discussion of the key terms and concepts. It then outlines how visas may be issued through the 'offshore' Refugee and Humanitarian Program or the 'onshore' protection process. The chapter provides an overview of the different legal frameworks for dealing with 'unauthorised' boat arrivals, depending on their date of arrival in Australia. Once permanent residence is obtained, refugees will often want to seek assistance to locate family members overseas and to bring them to Australia. Case studies ae provided to illustrate some of the many psychological, social and financial issues faced by refugees and asylum seekers caught up in these legal processes.