Sarah Hanson-Young (SA, Australian Greens) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I move:

That the Senate calls on the Government to heed the request of the United Nations and provide increased humanitarian assistance in the Middle East by offering and preserving asylum space for Syrians and Iraqis and supporting the neighbouring countries hosting them.

Michaelia Cash (WA, Liberal Party, Assistant Minister for Immigration and Border Protection) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I seek leave to make a short statement.

Stephen Parry (President) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Leave is granted for one minute.

Michaelia Cash (WA, Liberal Party, Assistant Minister for Immigration and Border Protection) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Those impacted by the crises in Iraq and Syria will be the main beneficiaries of the success of the government's strong border protection policies, with 4,400 resettlement places set aside in the Australian government's 2014-15 refugee and humanitarian program. A minimum of 2,200 places will be provided for Iraqis, including ethnic and religious minorities fleeing from the violence in northern Iraq to neighbouring countries. The government has also committed a minimum of 2,200 places for Syrians, including those now living in desperate conditions in countries such as Lebanon. The government has committed $30 million in humanitarian assistance this year for people affected by the violence in Syria. The government has also contributed $7 million for the UN's humanitarian response in Iraq. We have used our seat on the UN Security Council to co-author two UN security resolutions to get better access for humanitarian efforts inside Syria. Australia will continue to work with our neighbours in the region to help stabilise displaced populations and find appropriate solutions for their protection.

Question agreed to.