Christian leaders welcome the Australian Government's commitment in the 2022-23 Federal Budget to take in an additional 16,500 Afghan refugees.
A coalition of Christian leaders, brought together by Micah Australia, has consistently called on the Prime Minister to lift the government's intake of Afghan refugees beyond our existing humanitarian program.
"Christians across all walks of life and perspectives have been united in their concern for the wellbeing of the Afghanistan community and the horrors they face under Taliban rule," said Reverend Tim Costello, Executive Director of Micah Australia.
"For two decades, Australians fought and died for the future of the people of Afghanistan.
We have a moral obligation to help bring its people to safety and I am pleased the Australian Government has listened to our calls.
"This announcement will help some of the most vulnerable Afghan people displaced by the crisis inflicted upon them by the Taliban and those still devastated by food and supply shortages.
"As many refugees and migrants over Australia's history have, Afghan refugees will undoubtedly contribute to our local economy and our vibrant culture as we recover from the COVID-19 pandemic and continue to battle cost of living pressures.
More than 162,000 people signed onto the Afghan-Australian led Action For Afghanistan petition and every mainline Christian denomination, as well as the Australian Christian Lobby, has thrown its support behind the campaign Christians United For Afghanistan.
Further, more than 300 organisations, businesses and community groups signed onto a joint letter from the Refugee Council of Australia, united in a call for federal parliamentarians to commit to additional humanitarian places.
"We thank every single one of those people and organisations for their advocacy," Reverend Costello said.
"Together we have lifted our calls up to the Australian Government and everyone involved should feel proud knowing an additional 16,500 Afghans will be able to seek refuge in Australia as a result.
"However, our support must not end here. From Afghanistan and Myanmar to Ukraine, there is greater conflict and instability. The Australian Government must increase its aid program and long-term investment in development cooperation and humanitarian assistance."
