Today I have written to the Prime Minister and the Minister for Immigration, outlining our support for the Federal Government’s strong and compassionate response to the Syrian refugee crisis.
The Tasmanian Government is also ready to play its part in response to this humanitarian crisis.
I have confirmed Tasmania’s willingness to accept up to an additional 500 asylum seekers and refugees to settle in Tasmania.
I have also confirmed with the Federal Government that we are prepared to accept, as part of the additional intake, asylum seekers and refugees on other visas, not just Safe Haven Enterprise Visas, subject to the usual financial support arrangements being provided by the Federal Government.
I have also advised the Federal Government that we are now in a position to formally sign the Safe Haven Enterprise Visa implementation plan.
To support the SHEV arrangement, the Tasmanian Government is willing to invest up to $1.2 million over four years to establish a Safe Haven Hub to provide additional support, including pathways to employment, additional interpreter support and settlement support to SHEV holders.
The Hodgman Liberal Government will also contribute towards the UNCHR response to the Syrian refugee crisis by providing $1 million.
The Hodgman Liberal Government stands ready to support refugees and asylum seekers and our door is open.
Tasmania is well known as a warm and welcoming community, and I have no doubt Tasmanians will open their arms and hearts to asylum seekers and refugees who come to live in Tasmania under these programs.