JRS Australia welcomes the outcome of the 2025 Federal Election over the weekend.

We recognise this result as a strong statement from the Australian people: we have rejected fear-driven politics and affirmed our commitment to a more just, inclusive, and compassionate society.

This result is a clear mandate for moral leadership. Australians have voted not only against extremism but for a vision of the country rooted in fairness, dignity, and shared humanity. For the thousands of refugees and people seeking asylum in our communities — many of whom have lived in limbo for more than a decade — this election brings renewed hope that change is not only possible, but on its way.

With a majority government, Labor now has both the opportunity and responsibility to act decisively. There is no longer room for delay: we expect progress, not just promises.

In his victory speech, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese shared that in his vision of Australia, we will “move forward together, with no one held back and no one left behind.” These are powerful words, and we urge the Prime Minister to ensure they apply to everyone in Australia — including people seeking asylum. For too long, the individuals and families we serve have been left behind by policies that deny them safety, certainty, and the chance to rebuild their lives with dignity.

We call on the Labor Government to take immediate steps to:

• Provide fair and timely pathways to permanency for all people seeking asylum
• Ensure access to essential services including healthcare, housing, education, and income support
• End offshore processing and urgently settle those still affected by this practice
• Expand our humanitarian intake and strengthen the community sponsorship program

As a Jesuit organisation and proud member of the Catholic Alliance for People Seeking Asylum (CAPSA), our mission is rooted in the belief that every person — regardless of their visa status — has inherent dignity. We will continue to walk alongside people seeking asylum and advocate for policies that reflect this belief.

“This election result is a moment of real hope,” said Amelia Savage, Head of Policy, Advocacy and Communications at JRS Australia. “The people we serve have gone too long without a fair go. With this renewed mandate, the government has the chance to finally deliver real, practical change and make sure everyone, regardless of visa status, has the chance to live in safety and with dignity in Australia.”

JRS Australia urges the Labor Government to respect the trust the Australian people have placed in them, and lead with courage and conviction.

We are ready to work collaboratively and constructively toward a future where no one is left in limbo, no one is punished for seeking safety, and every person is treated with respect and open arms when they come to Australia.

Let this be the turning point. Let this be the moment Australia chooses hope, not fear — action, not rhetoric — and justice, not delay.