Federal Courts’s landmark move on protection visas
Refugees whose temporary protection visas have expired may not be deported unless the government can prove their country of origin is safe, following a groundbreaking Federal Court decision yesterday. Brisbane Immigration lawyer Bruce Henry who has been involved with more than 100 TPV cases said until now refugees have had to go throught the painstaking process of reproving their refugee status to the courts. The decision coincides with a cultural celebration in a town that has become home to many TPV holders. The Afghan men of Murray Bridge, tonight open their exhibition, “Pictures in my heart”. Exhibition coordinator, Fiona Hamilton said they started art workshops for the Afhgan men as a way to share their sad and amazing stories. She also said the Federal Court decision will impact the lives of refugees and asylum seekers dramatically.