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	GET YOUR FACTS RIGHT! Debunking the Myths...
	They are Queue jumpers
	Asylum seekers are illegal
	We already take too many
	We're swamped by hordes
	They're not real refugees
	They must be 'cashed up'
	They'll take our benefits
	No option to detention
	More myths debunked...

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MYTH 2 - Asylum Seekers are Illegal

Fact: This is untrue.

Under Australian Law and International Law a person is entitled to make an application for refugee asylum in another country when they allege they are escaping persecution. Article 14 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights states that "Everyone has the right to seek and to enjoy in other countries asylum from persecution."

People who arrive on our shores without prior authorisation from Australia, with no documents, or false documents are not illegal. They are asylum seekers - a legal status under International Law.

Many Asylum Seekers are forced to leave their countries in haste and are unable to access appropriate documentation. In many cases oppressive authorities actively prevent normal migration processes from occurring.

'Illegals' are people who overstay their visas. The vast majority of these in Australia are from western countries, including 5,000 British tourists.

download 'Debunking the Myths'.

*All Debunking the Myths copy and facts kindly provided by the Edmund Rice Centre for Justice and Community Education