This paper has been developed by the Australian Council for International Development’s (ACFID) Humanitarian Reference Group (HRG). It argues that Australia is well positioned to aim higher in taking a principled, whole-of-government approach to humanitarian action, in line with our role as a wealthy, middle-power actor.

For many people who find sanctuary in Australia, ongoing forced separation from loved ones affects their ability to build a new life. This report shows that Australia stands to reap significant long-term economic benefits from increasing the intake of people seeking safety.