I arrived in Australia and I want to claim asylum. Can UNHCR help me?
UNHCR does not assist with determining asylum claims in Australia.
As a Contracting State to the 1951 Convention relating to the Status of Refugees and its 1967 Protocol, the Australian Government has developed procedures for determining whether persons claiming asylum are refugees. These procedures are administered by the Department of Home Affairs in accordance with Australian law.
UNHCR recommends that people seeking asylum seek advice from a qualified lawyer or registered migration agent when preparing their protection claim.
Please see this list of free legal service providers across Australia who specialise in refugee law and may be able to assist you with advice and representation.
A list of registered migration agents is also available at the Australian Migration Agents Registration Authority. These migration agents charge fees.
I have applied for refugee status in Australia but my claim has not been successful. Can UNHCR assist me?
UNHCR does not review or appeal asylum decisions in Australia.
If your claim was unsuccessful, we recommend you get legal advice as soon as possible to understand your appeal options.
You can contact a free legal service provider for advice or contact a registered migration agent (fees apply). A list of registered migration agents is available at the Australian Migration Agents Registration Authority.
I am currently outside Australia but wish to seek asylum. Can UNHCR assist me?
If you are outside Australia and wish to seek asylum, you should contact the UNHCR office in the country you are in.
Contact details for UNHCR offices around the world can be found on the UNHCR website.