100 VIGILS.
100 ELECTORATES.
100 DAYS OF PRAYERFUL WITNESS.
For over a decade, thousands of lives have hung in limbo. Every day of waiting strips people of hope, dignity, and a future.
As Australian Churches, we say
#EndTheWaiting
Mina is one of thousands whose life hangs in limbo. Learn her story.
Why We’re Saying: #EndTheWaiting
For over a decade, thousands of refugees have been trapped in legal limbo in Australia — stuck on short-term visas, without certainty, stability, or a path forward. These are people who fled danger, sought safety, and have now spent up to 12 years unable to rebuild their lives.
Every day in limbo chips away at hope, dignity, and the chance of a future.
The System Is Broken — and Everyone Knows It
Most of those still waiting arrived between 2012 and 2014. They were placed into a now-abolished “Fast Track” process that denied fair hearings and only offered temporary protection. These people live on short-term bridging visas, forced to renew them every 3–6 months. Many can’t study. Many can’t access secure work. They can’t reunite with family.
No New Laws Are Needed. Just the Will to Act.
The Albanese Government already has the power to fix this. Ministerial discretion can grant permanency. This isn’t a legislative issue — it’s a moral one.
It’s a choice between justice and politics.
We don’t need to rewrite the rules — just apply them fairly, consistently, and with compassion.
The #EndTheWaiting campaign is urging the Albanese Government to provide:
A pathway to permanency for all asylum seekers failed by Australia's flawed asylum processes, including those subjected to the Fast Track system.
Work rights for all asylum seekers while claims are processed.
One visa that extends until claims are processed—ending the bureaucratic nightmare of applying for a new visa every three to six months.
If We Believe in a Fair Go — This Is the Test
Australia prides itself on giving people a fair go. But fairness means everyone gets a chance — not just those lucky enough to make it through a flawed process.
These refugees have lived among us for over a decade. They are our neighbours, friends, and faith community members. They’ve built lives here. Australia is already their home.
Our Faith Calls Us to More Than Compassion — It Calls Us to Action
As Australian Churches, we believe the Gospel calls us to welcome the stranger.
"I was a stranger and you welcomed me.” (Matthew 25:35)
These aren’t just words for Sundays. They must shape how we treat those seeking safety.
That’s why churches across the country are standing up to say: It’s time to #EndTheWaiting.
We’re calling on the government to grant a fair, permanent future to refugees who’ve waited too long.
What You Can Do About It:
Starting August 1st 2025, we’re holding 100 Vigils in 100 Electorates over 100 Days
— a nationwide witness led by churches and people of faith.
It’s time to bring prayer and public pressure together.
Sign Up.
Show Up.
Pray.
Use the #EndTheWaiting Vigil Assistant to find or register to host a vigil in your city. Just follow the prompts in the chat below.