Warning: This story discusses suicide and contains details that may upset some people.
A former Manus Island refugee detained in an Australian hotel attempted suicide on Tuesday as police apprehended Australians protesting on the building's roof.
One of the banners unfurled by protesters at the Mantra Hotel in Melbourne. Photo: Whistleblowers, Activists & Citizens Alliance
It is not thought the two incidents are connected.
The refugee had previously attempted suicide in Papua New Guinea and was transferred to Australia for mental health treatment last August.
He is one of about 200 men formerly detained offshore who are now locked up in Australian hotels being used as alternative places of detention.
Most have been there for more than six months after six years of detention without trial on Manus and Nauru.
All were transferred for medical treatment of conditions arising during their indefinite incarceration. Many claim they are yet to receive healthcare.
As paramedics rushed the refugee to hospital, police apprehended eight activists who had barricaded themselves into rooms of the Melbourne hotel and occupied its rooftop.
They had unfurled large banners calling for the release of the refugees, including about 400 still in PNG and Nauru
Medical experts, who fear outbreaks of Covid-19 in detention centres, have also called for the refugees' release.
Their public health warning was echoed in a statement from protest spokesperson Sam Castro.
"The Australian Government owes us all an explanation. Why are 200 refugees brought over under Medevac legislation denied medical care and fresh air?
"Why are such vulnerable people being held under unsafe conditions during the Covid-19 crisis? How long will the Australian Government continue to indefinitely detain and torture people fleeing persecution and conflict?"
The Age reported the protesters were escorted from the building by police and fined $AU1650 each for breaking social distancing rules.
The refugee is understood to be in a stable condition.
Where to get help
These are services across the Pacific for people who may be thinking about suicide, or those who are concerned about family or friends.
In Samoa:
Lifeline 800-5433
In Tonga:
Lifeline 23000 or 25144
In Fiji:
Lifeline 667 0565
In Papua New Guinea:
Lifeline Port Moresby 326 0011
In New Zealand:
Lifeline: 0800 543 354
Depression Helpline: 0800 111 757 (24/7)
Samaritans: 0800 726 666 (24/7)
Youthline: 0800 376 633 (24/7) or free text 234 (8am-12am), or email talk@youthline.co.nz
Suicide Crisis Helpline: 0508 828 865 / 0508 TAUTOKO (24/7).
What's Up: online chat (7pm-10pm) or 0800 WHATSUP / 0800 9428 787
Kidsline (ages 5-18): 0800 543 754 (24/7)
Rural Support Trust Helpline: 0800 787 254
Healthline: 0800 611 116
Rainbow Youth: (09) 376 4155
If it is an emergency and you feel like you or someone else is at risk, call 111.
