Asylum seekers’ plight

Local charity groups could be expected to use their already stretched resources to help more asylum seekers if they are placed in the Rockingham and Kwinana community.

For the past month The Salvation Army Rockingham branch has been providing assistance to two Iranian men on bridging visas because they cannot survive on their fortnightly welfare payments.

Asylum seekers on bridging visas receive $442.33 a fortnight, which is 89 per cent of the Newstart allowance.

Conditions of their visas mean they are not allowed to work and earn an income.

Salvation Army spokesman Warren Palmer said the pair had sought help from the charity group because there were little options available to them.

“The demand for our services will always impact our ability to deliver support as we have finite resources,” he said.

“We assess all who present to us as to their needs and provide support in a proportionate manner that remains meaningful but also spreads the resources we have to assist the most.

Mr Palmer has sought guidance from Brand MHR Gary Gray’s office.

“At this time, no further assistance has been offered but we remain hopeful that further discussions with the Federal Government will bring a positive outcome,” he said.

Shoalwater resident and asylum seeker supporter James Mumme said he was upset about the situation the two men found themselves in.

“People coming now on bridging visas, with no means of support, it’s very tough,” he said. “It’s not fair.”