10 Dec 2013

Report finds some refugees denied crucial support

6:11 am on 10 December 2013

A report being released on Tuesday says some refugees in New Zealand are being denied support they desperately need.

The Changemakers Refugee Forum wants comprehensive Government support already given to 750 quota refugees per year, extended to all refugees.

As well as quota refugees, New Zealand also grants refugee status to about 140 other people per year after they turn up in New Zealand seeking asylum.

Known as convention refugees, they can't obtain support such as education, full healthcare and access to the main welfare benefits until they gain permanent residency, which can take years.

The report says that often leaves them without housing, a decent income, or language assistance.

A spokesperson for the Minister of Immigration says the Government will consider extending its resettlement services to convention refugees in future.