This is an ongoing study which commenced in 2003-4 when researchers interviewed 40 rejected asylum seekers.

To provide comparable information, interviews were conducted on a standardised format.

Where possible we seek corroborative material evidence to check the returnee’s story.

Where we could not find this and to control for any possible collusive fabrication, we looked to see if the pattern of an account was mirrored in independent interviews with other returnees in similar situations.

We have also checked the internal consistency of each account given us, a strategy also used by the Refugee Review Tribunal in assessing credibility.

We are satisfied that our data provide a reliable case for the Government to answer.

We have also drawn on reliable accounts from deportee contacts and expert respondents in Australia.