Joint Media Release

The Hon Alexander Downer MP, Minister for Foreign Affairs
The Hon Kevin Andrews MP, Minister for Immigration and Citizenship

15 March 2007

Illegal Arrivals Will Be Transferred to Nauru

The Australian Government has decided to transfer to Nauru the group of illegal arrivals intercepted by HMAS Success who are currently accommodated on Christmas Island.

The Australian Government has a policy of offshore processing for people attempting to enter Australia illegally by boat.

Any asylum claims they may have will be assessed in Nauru.

The transfer of these illegal arrivals will send a strong message to those considering any attempt to enter Australia illegally.

Health and identity checks have been completed and the men will be transferred by charter aircraft.

They will be accommodated in Nauru under the existing Memorandum of Understanding between the Australian and Nauruan governments, reflecting the continuing strong cooperation between the two governments on regional security.

The Government, in transferring this group to Nauru, acknowledges Nauru’s continued cooperation.

While in this case it was decided that transferring the group to Nauru was the best option, the Government appreciates the continuing close and effective cooperation with Indonesia on border security.

Two Indonesian crew members who were on board the vessel appeared in a Perth court this week charged with offences under the Migration Act. They were remanded in custody to reappear in court next month.

The trade of people smuggling is dangerous, repugnant and illegal.

The Australian government has successfully stemmed the influx of unauthorised boat arrivals through strong border security. There have been less than 250 boat arrivals since January 2002, compared to some 12,000 in the preceding two-and-a-half years.

The Government is determined to protect and secure our borders, maintaining the integrity of our immigration system.

Media Inquiries: Mr Downer's office 02 6277 7500, Mr Andrews’ office 0421 588 794