Overview of MYAN’s Humanitarian Programme Response
The Multicultural Youth Advocacy Network Australia (MYAN) has submitted recommendations for Australia’s 2025-26 Humanitarian Program, focusing specifically on young refugees aged 12-24. Whilst acknowledging Australia’s strong settlement services system, MYAN identifies critical gaps requiring urgent attention.
Processing times have ballooned dramatically, with the Community Support Program now taking 8 years and the Special Humanitarian Program 5 years. These delays severely impact young refugees’ mental health and wellbeing, particularly as family reunification is crucial for their successful settlement. MYAN raises concerns that youth-specific needs remain inadequately addressed in current policy frameworks.
Key recommendations include increasing youth-focused quotas, establishing emergency visa pathways outside quota limits for crisis responses, and expanding family reunification with broader definitions of family. MYAN advocates ceasing the use of tourist visas for those fleeing persecution and streamlining applications through digital solutions.
The submission emphasises that successful youth settlement requires specialised support addressing education adaptation, trauma, and social integration. MYAN recommends enhanced youth-specific settlement services, tailored mental health support, and expanded complementary pathways including educational scholarships and vocational training programs, with young people actively participating in decision-making processes.
