On 27 March 2024, the Australian government hastily introduced the Migration Amendment (Removal and Other Measures) Bill 2024 (the Bill) to Parliament. The Bill raises significant human rights concerns, particularly regarding Australia’s obligations under the Refugee Convention and its protocols. The Bill primarily targets non-citizens, including holders of Bridging (Removal Pending) visas, Bridging (General) visas and potentially other non-citizens as specified in the Bill Regulations. Failure to comply with a removal direction could result in mandatory imprisonment between 1 and 5 years, significant fines or both, without consideration given to the risk of persecution or other serious potential harm associated with removal from Australia. The Edmund Rice Centre for Justice and Community Education strongly opposes the Bill and in the submission to the Senate Legal and Constitutional Affairs Committee, recommends it does not proceed to become legislation.

Click here to download our submission to the Senate Committee.

The West Papua Mini Film Festival is a touring festival of short films organised by the West Papuan community and their allies and supporters in Australia to raise awareness of the situation in West Papua.  Click here to read a review by ERC Director 'Alopi Latukefu, published by the Development Policy Centre of Crawford School of Public Policy, Australian National University.

Fourth Sunday of Easter

In each of today’s readings, we are invited to recognize Christ’s resurrection as a reality that transforms how we live and how we serve others every day. Most of us have some responsibility for others and so today’s gospel is for all of us especially those - parents, teachers, priests and bishops - who are entrusted with vulnerable people. The image of God as shepherd is central to the Bible. In Ezekiel it rebukes uncaring and unjust leaders. In Psalm 23, it is one of comfort and protection. It is a powerful symbol of Jesus, the humble servant who lays down his life for others. Prior to being enthroned in theology and art as imperial ruler or a tortured victim, Jesus was shepherd, teacher, and healer.