Submission for the Social Services Legislation Amendment (Encouraging Self-sufficiency for Newly Arrived Migrants) Bill 2018

This submission is directed to the Senate Community Affairs Legislation Committee in response to the Social Services Legislation Amendment (Encouraging Self-sufficiency for Newly Arrived Migrants) Bill 2018. The submission highlights the challenges and potential negative impacts this Bill may have on young people from refugee and migrant backgrounds, particularly those arriving under non-humanitarian visas. MYAN argues that the Bill could exacerbate vulnerabilities for these young people by imposing waiting periods for social security benefits, which may lead to increased risks of social and economic isolation. The submission recommends that the Bill be revised to provide exemptions and targeted support for these young people to ensure their successful settlement and integration into Australian society.