The Dean of St Paul’s Cathedral, Dr Andreas Loewe, has expressed his gratitude towards the Federal Government for fulfilling its election pledge to abolish temporary protection visas (TPVs). Refugees subject to the temporary protection policy have been waiting anxiously for more than 10 years for the right to safety and security in Australia.
“Our ‘Let’s Fully Welcome Refugees’ banner, which has been displayed on our Cathedral since 2013, represents our commitment to standing with refugees. The colours on that sign may be fading in the Melbourne sun, but the message remains the same,” said Dr Loewe. “Today, I give thanks that the Federal Government has made good on its pledge to abolish TPVs.”
The Dean expressed his hope that the process of converting temporary protection visas to permanent visas would now take place quickly, so that refugees can finally put an end to their ongoing limbo.
Dr Loewe said:
“The conversion of temporary protection visas to permanent visas will enable refugees who have been contributing to Australian society for more than a decade to feel finally that this country is their home. They will no longer be prevented from getting a loan for a home or their business and, most importantly of all, will be able to apply to reunite with separated family members”.