The Wire

Legal experts say the lack of clarity in current immigration law is compounding mental health issues for detainees, being released in the community. It follows recent Senate estimates which shows 755 people in detention are currently on anti-psychotic medication, as pressure mounts for their release. Additional challenges are now presented by Immigration department’s moves to restrict access by the media, to stories of those detained.

Media Entertainment & Arts Alliance is critical of the Immigration department’s stance on media restriction. Legal experts are as concerned that as release of detainees into the community are being discussed current laws provide very little support nor consideration over their welfare.