I EARNESTLY ask the local community leaders, government officials, including Australian police, asylum seekers and refugees’ support services for better commitment in advocating for appropriate supports and resources to meet the needs of asylum seekers and refugees.
Practical and constructive steps must be taken through government, police and local community collaboration to respond to the pressing needs of refugees and asylum seekers.
Local communities must be the foremost voice on asylum seekers’ rights, issues and needs.
It must be thoroughly acknowledged by the local the government and police that asylum seekers are often fleeing from conflict, human rights violations and persecution and come to our community seeking safety and protection.
It is important to uphold asylum seekers’ human and legal rights and demonstrate compassion.
It was alleged that Mr Amini, a few days prior to ending his life, was living out of his car for fear of being arrested by the police after he was told by his room-mates that the police attended his home address looking for him.
He feared he was going to be sent back to Afghanistan if he was arrested by the police.
Further, it is said that the Immigration Department was well aware that Mr Amini was suffering from mental illnesses and that his mental health was deteriorating.
The question remains whether or not Mr Amini’s mental condition was taken serious enough by the government authorities in dealing with any alleged charges against him and a decision to deport him back to his country.
It has now become apparent that the burden on Mr Amini was significant enough to cause him burn himself alive.
I offer pro bono legal advice for asylum seekers on bridging visas with respect to any criminal charges they may be facing.
I can be contacted on 9225 7444 or email roona@vicbar5.com.au.
Roona Nida,
Dandenong.
