Australian-Ukrainian community members have expressed deep concern over Russia's escalation of military action against Ukraine as fears mount over the human cost of the act of aggression.
Australian-Ukrainian community members have expressed deep concern over Russia's escalation of military action against Ukraine as fears mount over the human cost of the act of aggression.Leaders of Australia's Ukraine community met with Immigration Minister Alex Hawke on Thursday to discuss the federal government's response to the unfolding crisis.
"We're all afraid that even if the visa will be granted it will be too late to escape," she told SBS News.Australian Federation of Ukrainian Organisations co-chairman Stefan Romaniw said the community members had conveyed the need for decisive action to support Ukrainians abroad. Mr Romaniw expressed deep concern over the deteriorating situation, with fears rapidly escalating for those abroad in the danger area.
Mr Hawke told community members on Thursday during their meeting the Australian government stood ready to work "urgently" to address concerns over the safety of Ukrainians. The government has promised to expedite 430 outstanding applications from Ukrainian citizens to come to Australia as a matter of urgency, across a range of visa classes.
The current crisis comes after Australia recently pledged 15,000 visas through the humanitarian and family visa pathways for Afghan nationals over four years within the existing cap.The response has placed pressure on the Department of Home Affairs' processing capabilities as officials work through applications on behalf of some 145,000 people seeking protection.
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