by Kaylia Payne
Amiculus exists to assist those who are systemically most vulnerable.
SBS Radio recently explored the limitations of the federal government’s COVID-19 support schemes, which cannot be accessed by over two million temporary visa holders in Australia, including almost 97,000 people on bridging visas. Services who work with refugees and people seeking asylum are urging the government to provide financial and support services to those on temporary visas.
Many temporary visa holders are currently relying on charity donations to survive; however many are struggling under the increased demand for services. Even with the assistance of charities, 76% of temporary visa holders cannot afford to pay their rent or mortgage, 62% have gone without meals, and 79% have had to borrow money to survive.
Paul Power, CEO of the Refugee Council of Australia, told SBS that calls for assistance to almost 200 support agencies have doubled—in some cases, even tripled. These support services, such as Amiculus, are vital for caring for those in need, working tirelessly toward a society in which no member of the community goes hungry.
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