The Asia Pacific Assembly of the National Unification Advisory Council says the federal government needs to expand the subsidy “without demarcation and discrimination“ over visas and to expand the country’s “ethos” as a multicultural society.
The council also launched the online and offline petitions calling for Australia to assist temporary visa holders and international students, who face financial hardship due to government the coronavirus lockdown measures.
“Many temporary migrants are not eligible for the majority of government benefits. Without the newly announced Job Keeper program, numerous migrants may find themselves in financial distress,” the petition reads.
“In addition, with the global border closures and flight disruptions, the vast majority of these migrants will find it very difficult, if not impossible to return home in the near future.”
The campaign is backed by Korean organisations across Australia including the Korean Society of Sydney as well as the Federation of Korean Societies in Oceania.
Ms Susan Lee, the Head of the Asia-Pacific Assembly , who is leading the campaign, said: "If we take into account the obvious fact that everyone in the region is affected by the type of visa, nationality, and race due to the corona pandemic, a comprehensive countermeasure must be prepared."
“The government's support for temporary residents must be provided, so that the economy of the Korean society can also be revived.”
In addition, most Korean self-employed companies have been employing international students, so they have not been able to enjoy the benefits of maintaining employment.
Ma Lee said the organisation “will make every effort to provide institutional support at the Australian level to young people from their home countries.”
The council has sent the petition to key members of Australian politics for support, including NSW Labor leader Jodie Mackay who said: “I will do my best to pay attention to the end.”
Petitions were also sent to Federal members for Reid and Bennelong, Dr Fiona Martin and John Alexander.
Dr Martin said: "Please understand the position of the Australian government, which is unable to provide financial assistance to non-permanent residents of COVID-19."
Mr Alexander said: "I will deliver the Korean society's petitions and concerns to the Finance Minister's Office."
The petition has also been sent to the country’s National Cabinet and the Prime Minister's Office along with other key political leaders.
Meanwhile, approximately 1000 people have signed the NUAC’s offline petition via change.org under the title of Koran community in Australia as at 27 April.
Manifesto adopted by the Korean Community Source: SBS
