Approximately 25% of the population of Australia was born overseas and 17% of Australians speak a language other than English at home, making it one of the most multicultural countries in the world. Australia is home to a diverse range of religions, and the Australian Constitution protects an individual's right to freely practise their religion. The majority of Australians are extremely welcoming of people from other nations with who they share many common values.
Australia is one of only 10 countries which resettle refugees and people in humanitarian need each year.
After the United States, Australia has resettled the second highest number of humanitarian entrants for the past two years. In 2004, Australia helped 11,860 refugees to resettlement in Australia. Since World War II Australia has resettled more than 645 000 refugees and displaced people.
• Most people who come to Australia as refugees are referred by the UNHCR.
• These people have their claims assessed and then go through health and security checks to make sure they don’t have a criminal record.
• Australia’s immigration staff at overseas offices interview and process people for whom resettlement in Australia is most favourable.
The Australian Government offers a wide range of help for refugees and other people who come to Australia under the Humanitarian Program.
Australia provided them many basics like clothes,