1. Illegal, Invisible, In Limbo: how can CLCs support asylum seekers living in the community? Ms Liz Simpson, MOSAIC – Justice Connect Ms Sarah Dale, Refugee Advice & Casework Service Ms Catherine Johnson, Coordinator, Migration Support Programs, Australian Red Cross

2. Summary 1.Refugee process affecting asylum seekers 2.Living situation of asylum seekers & casework support programs 3.Common civil law issues affecting asylum seekers 4.Bridging Visas

3. Immigration Process

4. Living Situation 1.Asylum Seekers in the community can access support through ASAS, CAS, CD -Financial assistance (60 – 89% Centrelink) -access to health services -caseworker support and referral for housing, education, social support etc. 2. Key Challenges: -Limited financial resources -Insecure house -Lack of/limited access to education and employment -Impact of mental and physical health issues -Impact of uncertainty in visa determination process. -Lack of knowledge of legal system or impact of experience in their home country -Limited social and community supports

5. Common civil law issues for asylum seekers (MOSAIC: Areas of law Jan-March 2014)

6. Bridging Visa Conditions

7. ph: 02 9114 1793 ph: 02 9114 1600 Email: admin@racs.org.auadmin@racs.org.au ph: 02 9229 4111 Email: nswinfo@redcross.org.au nswinfo@redcross.org.au