What is UNHCR’s role in Australia?

The Government of Australia is a signatory to the 1951 Convention relating to the Status of Refugees and its 1967 Protocol and has undertaken to adhere to international standards in the protection of asylum-seekers and refugees. Persons applying for asylum in Australia are subject to the national laws and asylum procedures that are in place.

UNHCR has a supervisory role with regard to the implementation of the 1951 Convention relating to the Status of Refugees in Australia.

UNHCR Regional Representation in Canberra

UNHCR’s Regional Representation is based in Canberra, and is responsible for the promotion and protection of refugee rights in the region which includes Australia, Cook Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, Fiji, Kiribati, Marshall Islands, Nauru, New Zealand, Niue, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu and Vanuatu.

Tel: (61) 2 6281 9100

Email: aulca@unhcr.org

Website: http://www.unhcr.org/en-au/

Mail: 14 Kendall Lane, Canberra ACT 2601 Australia

Please note that visitors are by appointment only.

IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER: The information presented in this website is general in nature and may not be applicable in particular circumstances. We advise you to contact UNHCR’s Regional Representation in Canberra for further advice and/or assistance regarding specific issues or needs you may have.