This background note provides a snap-shot of significant developments in Australian refugee law and policy under Labor’s first term in office.

It begins by providing a chronology of key events from November 2007, when the ALP won the 2007 federal election to July 2010, when Parliament was prorogued for the 2010 federal election. Part I provides an overview of, and links to legislation (including proposed legislation and noteworthy regulatory change). Part II outlines significant policy reforms and other commitments, while Part III contains a brief overview of significant High Court judgments delivered during the period.

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