This submission by the Multicultural Youth Advocacy Network (MYAN) emphasises the necessity of a Commonwealth Human Rights Act to protect these vulnerable groups. The submission highlights the unique challenges faced by young people in accessing services, including language barriers, cultural unfamiliarity, and experiences of discrimination. It critiques Australia’s policies, such as mandatory detention for asylum seekers, which contravene international human rights obligations, and stresses the need for specific measures to protect unaccompanied minors.
The submission also addresses the structural barriers that impact young people from refugee and migrant backgrounds in areas such as housing, employment, education, and access to justice. It advocates for greater support in these areas, including targeted ESL (English as a Second Language) programs, more culturally competent services, and increased resources for mental health care. MYAN urges the government to take a more proactive approach to addressing these issues, including investing in community programs that promote inclusion and tackle racism, and implementing a national framework to guide funding for education and social services.
