One Million Stories. One Shared Future.
For more than 75 years, Australia has welcomed over one million refugees.
Together, let's build on that legacy and #EndTheWaiting for those still seeking safety, certainty, and belonging.
Why We’re Saying: #EndTheWaiting
For more than 75 years, Australia has welcomed people fleeing war, persecution, and conflict. Over one million refugees have found safety here, rebuilding their lives and contributing to our communities, workplaces, churches, schools, and neighbourhoods.
That legacy is one of our nation's greatest strengths.
Yet today, the world is experiencing the highest levels of displacement ever recorded. More than 120 million people have been forced from their homes, while too many people seeking safety continue to face barriers, uncertainty, and prolonged waiting.
As we celebrate one million refugee stories in Australia, we must remember those whose stories are still waiting to be written.
A Legacy Worth Building On
Australia has a proud history of welcoming refugees and helping people rebuild their lives after unimaginable hardship.
From families displaced by war in Europe, to those fleeing conflict in Southeast Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and beyond, refugees have strengthened our nation in countless ways. They have started businesses, served in our communities, raised families, and enriched Australian society.
This legacy reminds us that welcoming people in need is not merely an act of charity — it is an investment in the kind of nation we want to be.
The Challenge Before Us
While Australia's refugee program has changed lives, the need for protection has never been greater.
Around the world, millions of people remain displaced by conflict, violence, persecution, and climate-related disasters. At the same time, people seeking safety in Australia can face lengthy periods of uncertainty while awaiting decisions about their future.
The challenge before us is not whether Australia can continue its tradition of welcome.
It is whether we have the courage to do so.
A Call to the Church
Throughout Scripture, God calls His people to welcome the stranger, care for those in need, and love their neighbour.
To follow Jesus is to practise love, care, and welcome.
When churches support refugees, advocate for compassionate policies, and stand alongside those seeking safety, we remind Australia of the values that have shaped our nation at its best.
This is not only a political issue. It is a discipleship issue.
Our calls to government
The #EndTheWaiting campaign is calling on the Australian Government to:
Maintain and expand Australia's Refugee and Humanitarian Program
In line with Australia's pledge at the Global Refugee Forum, increase the program to 27,000 places and ensure Australia continues to play its part in responding to global displacement.
Make complementary pathways permanent
Expand opportunities for refugee students, skilled refugees, and community-sponsored entrants through pathways that are additional to Australia's humanitarian intake, and establish these programs as a permanent feature of Australia's response.
Protect dignity while people wait
Ensure people in Australia awaiting decisions on their protection claims have access to work rights and Medicare, preserving dignity and enabling meaningful contribution to the community.
One Million Stories — and Counting
Every refugee story begins with loss, uncertainty, and displacement.
But when people are welcomed, those stories can become stories of belonging, contribution, friendship, faith, family, and hope.
As we celebrate one million refugee stories in Australia, let us work together to ensure the next million can begin.
Let us #EndTheWaiting for those still being denied a place to belong.