A public forum will aim to shed some light on current issues facing refugees and asylum seekers held in Port Moresby.
Anne Moon, a passionate refugee advocate who has for many years devoted her life to acting for the men who were sent to Manus Island, will be in Pakenham to shed more light on the current situation.
She has been in constant communication with them and built close relationships with them, supporting many of those in extremely poor health who need access to the medevac process.
Ms Moon will be a guest speaker at a public forum organised by Casey Cardinia for Refugees to be held at 7.30pm on Wednesday 23 October at Outlook Community Centre, 24 Toomuc Valley Road, Pakenham.
Members of Casey Cardinia for Refugees said they hold serious concerns for the refugees and asylum seekers who were formerly detained on Manus Island before being moved to Port Moresby.
The advocates said there is no clear news of the hundreds of refugees and asylum seekers who have been housed short-term in various hotels and who now seem to be forced to move again, this time to find a place in the general community.
“This is the second time we have asked Anne to this area to update us on the situation,” said Anne Jones, a member of the group.
“We know there are many concerned people in our community, but finding out exactly what is happening is difficult, as the media do not report directly from the refugees themselves.
“We hope many people take the opportunity to hear from someone who is tireless in sharing her experiences, and welcomes questions.”
Ms Jones added that the UN High Commissioner of Human Rights, Michelle Bachelet, had recently urged the Australian government to work with PNG government to find a solution for those left in limbo in Port Moresby.
“It is widely recognised that the human rights of these refugees are being blatantly disregarded,” she said.
Entry is by gold coin donation, and supper will be provided.
