FOI Document #1
From: s47F
Sent: Friday, 20 December 2013 6:35 AM
To: s47F
Subject: FW: Somali/Sudanese Reporting [SEC=UNCLASSIFIED]
For info
s47F
Director Parliamentary and Executive
Joint Agency Task Force
Operation Sovereign Borders
s47F
From: s47F
Sent: 20/ 12/ 2013 2:33 AM
To: s47E(d)
Cc: s47F
Subject: Somali/Sudanese Reporting [SEC=UNCLASSIFIED]
Classification: UNCLASSIFIED
All
Please find below reporting from Somali/Sudanese cohorts in IOM care in Indonesia. Note, IOM are seeing
more Somalis than Sudanese seeking IOM care.
Push Factors for Leaving Source Countries
Somalis:
• Civil war / clan war
• Unemployment
• Al-shabab forced recruitment of teenagers
• Forced marriage for Somali women
• General insecurity
Sudanese:
• Darfur conflict
• Most Sudanese claim to belong to Zaqawa ethic group and state they have been targeted by army/paramilitary
groups as they are perceived to be close to Al Haraka (popular movement opposed to the government).
- Unemployment
Amended
to
s47E(d)
only
FOI Page 1 of 881
FOI Document #1
Pull Factors (both groups)
• Better life
• Security
• Education
• Health services
Awareness of GOA Policy (both groups)
There appears to be a high level of awareness of off-shore processing/off-shore resettlement policies. Amend
ed to
s47E(d)
only
Informations Sources (both groups)
Primary information sources are the Internet, social media, mainstream media; as well as family and friends in
Australia.
Cheers
s47F
First Secretary Jakarta
People Smuggling Operations
FOI Page 2 of 881
FOI Document #2
From: s47F
Sent: Thursday, 21 November 2013 10:46 PM
To: s47F
Cc: s47F
Subject: RE: Rohingya Cohort Reporting: Indonesia - 18 November 2013 [SEC=UNCLASSIFIED]
Thanks s47F
This is very interesting and very good reporting. Very helpful for our considerations.
Welcome the next instalment.
Regards
s47F
From: s47F
Sent: Thursday, 21 November 2013 5:15 PM
To: s47F
Subject: FW: Rohingya Cohort Reporting: Indonesia - 18 November 2013 [SEC=UNCLASSIFIED]
Hello s47F
Apologies, I left you off the list for the Rohingya reporting.
s
4
7
s47F
Fir
F
st Secretary, Jakarta l Australian Embassy
Australian Customs & Border Protection Service
s47F
From: s47F
Sent: Wednesday, 20 November 2013 11:09 AM
To: s47F
Subject: RE: Rohingya Cohort Reporting: Indonesia - 18 November 2013 [SEC=UNCLASSIFIED]
s47F
This is great stuff
s47F
s47F
Principal Staff Officer to Commander
Joint Agency Task Force - Operation Sovereign Borders
Australian Customs and Border Protection Service
s47F
From: s47F
Sent: Wednesday, 20 November 2013 1:40 PM
To: s47E(d)
Cc: s47F
s47E(d)
s47F
FOI Page 3 of 881
FOI Document #2
s47F
Subject: Rohingya Cohort Reporting: Indonesia - 18 November 2013 [SEC=UNCLASSIFIED]
All,
Please find below CLO reporting from the Rohingya community in Indonesia.
s47F
s47F
Rohingya Cohort Reporting - 18 November 2013
Amended to
s47E(d) only
Levels of Awareness of GoA Messaging
Very high levels of awareness regarding the July 19 policy that no individual arriving in Australia by
boat will ever be resettled in Australia.
Similar high levels of awareness that all irregular maritime arrivals will be sent PNG for processing
and if claims are found to be valid, will be resettled in PNG, not Australia.
Amended to s47E(d) only
Rohingya Information Sources
Primary source of trusted information is through IOM project staff and consultants.
Secondary sources are Rohingyas currently detained at Christmas Island, those who have been
transferred to Manus, PNG, and fellow Rohingyas living legally in Australia.
Some also cited the Internet as a news and information source.
s47E(d)
FOI Page 4 of 881
FOI Document #2
Amended to s47E(d) only
s47F
First Secretary, Jakarta l Australian Embassy Australian Customs & Border Protection Service
s47F
This email message and any attached files may be protected information under section 16 of
the Customs Administration Act 1985 (CA Act) and may also contain information that is
confidential, and/or subject to legal professional privilege.
The content of this email is intended only for use by the individual or entity to whom it is
addressed.
If you ARE the intended recipient, and are subject to an undertaking provided under section
16 of the CA Act, you must not use or further disclose the information within this email except
for the purpose for which it was provided to you or otherwise as required or authorised by
law.
If you are NOT the intended recipient, you must not use, copy, disseminate, forward, retain or
reproduce this email. If you receive this email in error, please notify the Customs Incident
Response Centre immediately on 1800 303 387 (24hrs) and delete all copies of this email and
any attachments.
Unsolicited commercial emails MUST NOT be sent to the originator of this email.
FOI Page 5 of 881
FOI Document #3
Tamil-Speaking CLO Counseling Session
Biweekly Report
16 – 27 July / Medan & Bogor
PM Note: First week of reporting period was from Medan duty station. Send week was from Bogor, West Java.
Specific Locations of Interviews
Belawan Detention Centre - Medan
Community Living Facility:
Wisma Keluarga - Medan
Anggerek – Bogor
Kenanga 1 – Bogor
Ubersam – Bogor
Pondok Ciburial – Bogor
Torpedo – Bogor
Kenanga 11 - Bogor
Numbers/Demographics of IMs
In Medan, at the time of this report there were a total of 546 RAS receiving IOM support in Medan,
including 193 Afghans, 167 Sri Lankans, 22 Iraqis, nine Iranians and 155 from Myanmar.
There are 60 RAS in the Belawan detention centre and 486 RAS in community facilities under IOM
care which includes 79 female RAS and 467 male RAS.
In Bogor, at the time of this report, there were a total of 460 RAS receiving IOM support, including
164 Afghans, 74 Sri Lankans, 69 Iraqis, 113 Iranians, two Pakistanis, 21 Palestinians, 12 Myanmarese,
one Algerian and four Syrians. There are a total 259 male RAS and 201 female RAS.
Number/Description of Interviewees
In Medan, CLO counseled six single male Sri Lankan RAS aged 25 - 39 at the Belawan detention
centre and 12 single male Sri Lankan RAS aged 25 – 46 at the community facility.
In Bogor, CLO counseled 13 families consisting of eight male Sri Lankan RAS aged 24 – 42 and 12
female Sri Lankan RAS aged 22 – 41 along with four single male Sri Lankan RAS aged 27 – 43 and
three single female Sri Lankan RAS aged 22 - 36 at the community facilities.
All of the sessions lasted for up to two hours. In Medan they were held outside the clinic at the
detention centre and community facilities; in Bogor the sessions were held at the hotels and rooming
houses where the RAS reside.
Topics Discussed
1. Sri Lankan envoy backs the policy of turning back boats, amid spike in attempts by Tamils – 16
July 2012, The Australian
2. Jakarta man tell his story of being conned into smuggling – 16 July 2012, Jakarta Globe
3. Malaysian deal OK, UN agency tells MPs – 24 July 2012, The Australian
Summary of Comments by Topic/Theme
FOI Page 6 of 881
FOI Document #3
Amended to s47E(d) only
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FOI Document #3
How often are you in contact with family/friends in home country and/or Australia?
The RAS at the community facility are in regular contact with their family/friends in Sri Lanka and/or
Australia whenever they wish to. The RAS at the detention centre are in contact with family/friends in
home country and/or Australia as and when it is possible.
CLO’s Comments: Insight, Recommendations, Notes re changing perspectives, etc
Amended to s47E(d) only
Patterns in Interviewee Access to Information
The only mainstream news available in Medan DC is in Bahasa Indonesia which is not widely
understood. Most of the RAS in community facilities read and watch news on the internet, such as
BBC, CNN, ABC for English language and Makkal TV, Sun TV, tamilnet.com, tamilwin.com,
lankasrinews.com, athirvu.com and manithan.com for Tamil language. Most of them have their own
laptops.
All the RAS in the community facilities have mobiles phones legitimately obtained. These people are
well informed on the situation in Sri Lanka and other countries such Australia, Canada, France,
Switzerland and Malaysia. Some of them have family and friends living abroad.
The RAS in the detention centre have ‚black‛ mobile phones and are able to keep in touch with their
families and relatives in Sri Lanka and other countries such as Australia and Canada. They are also in
touch with their friends in other countries and in the community facilities in Indonesia.
FOI Page 8 of 881
FOI Document #3
Dari-speaking CLO Counseling Session
Bi-Weekly Report
16-27 July 2012/Bogor
Specific Locations of Interviews
KENANGA I
CANGKUDU
KANANGA II
UBERSAM HOTEL
Numbers/Demographics of IMs
At the time of this reporting, there are a total of 451 migrants in Cisarua/Bogor, 265 of whom are
Dari/Farsi-speaking Afghans (154: 92 male and 62 female) and Iranians (111: 58 male and 53 female).
Currently there are seven other nationalities under IOM care in this area: Sri Lankan (78), Iraqis (67),
Pakistanis (2), Palestinian (22), Algerian (1), Myanmar (12) and Syrian (4).
Number/Description of Interviewees
During reporting period CLO counseled a total of 67 Afghans between the ages of 15 and 70 who are
under IOM care and nine individuals who are not under any organization’s care, who came to the
information centre.
CLO counseled them in small groups of between two and five people
During the same reporting period the CLO also counseled eighteen Iranians between ages of 25 and
48 who are also under IOM care in Puncak and three of them were not under any organization.
Topics Discussed PM Note: Bogor CLO followed up on two stories (No 4 & 5) from the previous reporting period.
1. Sri Lankan envoy backs the policy of turning back boats, amid spike in attempts by Tamils
2. Jakarta Man Tel His Story of Being Conned Into Smuggling.
3. Malaysia deal OK, UN agency tells Mps
4. Lives lost after rescue plea denied
5. Go back to where you came from Says: Abbott: Indonesia
Summary of Comments by Topic/Theme
Amended to s47E(d) only
FOI Page 9 of 881
FOI Document #3
Amended to s47E(d) only
How often are you in contact with family/friends in home country and/or Australia?
Most of them have regular contact with their families mainly by mobile and some using Internet and contacting
their families and friends through Skype.
CLO’s Comments: Insight, Recommendations, Notes re changing perspectives, etc
FOI Page 10 of 881
FOI Document #3
s47E(d)
Patterns in Interviewee Access to Information
The Puncak caseload is generally well informed, reflecting wide access to information
because they are living in community- based accommodation and they are free to have access
to variety of sources of information.
They are reading the Farsi BBC News website as well a
s (http://www.aapa.org.au/) website
run by Afghan Australian Philanthropic Association in Australia. The Kabul press weblog is a
Farsi weblog run by Afghans and some time they put news and articles about the refugees
and Australian policies about the refugees.
news.com.au, newsnow.com.au, abc.net.au
Some of them read the Australian Immigration website and follow the news of Australian
policy on that website.
They also have mobile phones and are contacting their friends or family members when ever
they like.
The IOM information centre is a way to get information. They are coming to the information
centre almost every day. They have access to the CLO binder that contains translations of all
the news stories provided by ACBPS as well as printout of selected BBC news stories from a
parallel IOM project.
FOI Page 11 of 881
FOI Document #3
Dari/Farsi Speaking CLO Counseling Session
Biweekly Report
16-30 July 2012/ Makassar South Sulawesi
Specific Locations of Interviews
Makassar Detention Centre
Hotels/Rooming Houses
o Wisma Permata Hotel
o Mahkota Hotel
o Wisma Favorite
o ZN Guest House
Numbers/Demographics of IMs
During the reporting period there were a total of 184 RAS receiving IOM assistance in Makassar,
including 54 Afghans (43 male and 11 female), five Sri Lankan (five male), 18 Iraqis (12 male and six
female), 51 Iranians (29 male and 22 female), three Pakistani (three male), three Sudanese (three male),
26 from Myanmar (16 male and 10 female), 23 Somalis (15 male and eight female) and one Ethiopian
(one male). There are a total of 49 RAS in Makassar DC and 135 RAS in the community facility, under
IOM care.
Number/Description of Interviewees
During the reporting period, the CLO counseled 16 Afghan men, age between 18 to 55 years in the
DC; the counseling sessions took place in the common area of the DC and in individual rooms where
RAS are residing. The counseling sessions were held for small groups of one to three people. One-on-
one sessions were also provided.
Approximately 20 Afghan men and women living in communities under IOM care were also
counseled. The counseling sessions were in groups of one to four RAS; each session was held in the
common area of their residence.
Twenty Iranians, aged between 17-50 were provided counseling, in the common area of their hotel,
where they are being accommodated.
Topics Discussed
1.
Jakarta man tell his story of being conned into smuggling: the Jakarta globe July 16, 2012
2.
Sri Lanka envoy backs the policy of turning back boats, amid spike in attempts by Tamils:
The Australian July 16, 2012
3.
Malaysia deal OK, UN agency tells MPs: The Australian 24 July, 2012
Summary of Comments by Topic/Theme
Amended to s47E(d) only
FOI Page 12 of 881
FOI Document #3
Amended to s47E(d) only
FOI Page 13 of 881
FOI Document #3
How often are you in contact with family/friends in home country and/or Australia?
Most regularly contact their families/ friends, once a week or at least once each two weeks.
CLO’s Comments: Insight, Recommendations, Notes re changing perspectives, etc
During the reporting period, some RAS left community accommodation, including seven Afghan and
approx 29 from Myanmar. s47E(d)
Thes47E(d) deal is very unpopular thought most don’t believe that the deal will eventuate. They see
s4
it as a deterrent but not something that is likely to happen.
7F
Questions are being raised about the possibility of new elections in Australia, and the prospect of a
new party – perceived as being ‘tougher on boat people’ being elected to govern the country.
Patterns in Interviewee Access to Information
In Makassar DC there are more restrictive rules in terms of accessing internet and mobile phones have
been introduced, in the past all RAS were able to have a mobile phone, and could contact anyone in
the world, including Australia and their country of origin, they were also had access to internet
enabled computers, but now they are allowed to use their mobile phone and computer for limited
amount of time per day, they can not have access to their phones and computers, because the
immigration keep it away from them.
They still have access to TV with foreign channels, and receive the Jakarta post and BBC News from
IOM staff.
The main sources of information among the IMs in DC are:
Word of mouth ( talking to each other and sharing information)
Calling family and friends all over the world(limited access)
Contacting family and friends through internet (Skype, yahoo messenger, face book etc...)
limited access.
Accessing some Indonesian newspapers, BBC Dari service stories printed and distributed by
a parallel IOM initiative.
News stories and other material provided by CLO
Most frequently accessed websites with limited access
o BBC Dari-Language service
o
www.facebook.com
o
www.yahoo.com
News papers
o BBC Dari news
o Jakarta post
TV
o Three TV sets with access to foreign channels (Pakistan TV, Afghan TV, and other
English news channels
Those who are living in community accommodation in Makassar, have access to all media materials,
they have mobile phones, internet enabled computer, TV with foreign news channels (eg Aljazeera),
and having contact with local people in the community.
There is no restriction on their movements in the city.
FOI Page 14 of 881
FOI Document #3
Tamil-Speaking CLO Counseling Session
Biweekly Report
2 – 13 July / Medan, North Sumatra
Specific Locations of Interviews
Belawan Detention Centre
Community Living Facility:
Wisma Keluarga
YPAP 1
Numbers/Demographics of IMs
At the time of this report there are a total of 567 RAS receiving IOM support in Medan, including 218
Afghans, 162 Sri Lankans, 23 Iraqis, nine Iranians and 155 from Myanmar.
There are 83 RAS in the Belawan detention centre and 484 RAS in community facilities under IOM
care which includes 78 female RAS and 489 male RAS.
Number/Description of Interviewees
CLO counseled five female Sri Lankan RAS aged 17 - 50 and 17 male Sri Lankan RAS aged 25– 51 at
the community facilities.
The last five SL males remaining at Belawan DC were counseled.
All sessions which lasted for about one and a half hours were held outside the clinic at the detention
centre and community facility and at the RAS’ homes at the community facility.
Topics Discussed
1. Asylum seekers stretch Christmas Island capacity – 1 July 2012, The Age
2. Anti-smuggling successes ‘not appreciated’ – 10 July 2012, Nine News
3. Lives lost after rescue plea denied – 8 July 2012, The Sydney Morning Herald
4. Go back to where you came from, says Abbott: Indonesia – 9 July 2012, The Age
Summary of Comments by Topic/Theme (use direct quotes if suitable.)
Amended to s47E(d) only
FOI Page 15 of 881
FOI Document #3
Amended to s47E(d) only
FOI Page 16 of 881
FOI Document #3
Amended to s47E(d) only
How often are you in contact with family/friends in home country and/or Australia?
The RAS at the community facilities are in regular contact with their family/friends in Sri Lanka
and/or Australia whenever they wish to.
The RAS at the detention centre are in contact with family/friends in home country and/or Australia
as and when it is possible.
CLO’s Comments: Insight, Recommendations, Notes re changing perspectives, etc
Amended to s47E(d) only
Patterns in Interviewee Access to Information
The only mainstream news available here on TV is in Bahasa Indonesia which is not widely
understood.
Most of the RAS in community facilities read and watch news on the internet, such as BBC, CNN,
ABC for English language and Makkal TV, Sun TV, tamilnet.com, tamilwin.com, lankasrinews.com,
athirvu.com and manithan.com for Tamil language. Some of them have their own laptops.
All the RAS in the community facilities have mobiles phones legitimately obtained. These people are
well informed on the situation in Sri Lanka and other countries such Australia, Canada, France,
Switzerland and Malaysia. Some of them have family and friends living abroad.
The RAS in the detention centre have ‚black‛ mobile phones and are able to keep in touch with their
families and relatives in Sri Lanka and other countries such as Australia and Canada. They are also in
touch with their friends in other countries and in the community facilities in Indonesia.
FOI Page 17 of 881
FOI Document #3
Dari/Farsi Speaking CLO Counseling Session
Biweekly Report
6-13 July 2012/ Makassar South Sulawesi
PM Note: New CLO arrived in Makassar on July 5
Specific Locations of Interviews
Makassar Detention Centre
Hotels/Rooming Houses
Wisma Permata Hotel:
Mahkota Hotel:
Wisma Favorite:
ZN Guest House:
Numbers/Demographics of IMs
During the reporting period there were a total of 206 RAS receiving IOM assistance in Makassar,
including 47 Afghans (35 male and 12 female), five Sri Lankan (five male), 18 Iraqis (12 male and six
female), 51 Iranians (29 male and 22 female), three Pakistani (three male), three Sudanese (three male),
55 from Myanmar (33 male and 22 female), 23 Somalis (15 male and eight female) and one Ethiopian
(male) .
There were a total of 36 RAS in Makassar DC and 170 RAS in the community facility under IOM care.
Number/Description of Interviewees
During the reporting period, CLO has counseled inside DC approx 6 Afghan men, age between 18 to
55 years; the counseling session took place in the common area of the DC and individual room, where
RAS are residing. The counseling sessions were held for small group of one to three people in each
group. One to one sessions were also provided.
Approx 25 Afghan men and women who are living in the community were also counseled, the
counseling session were in a group of one to four RAS.
Approx 25 Iranian, age between17-50 were also provided counseling, they were counseled in the
common area of the hotel, where they are being accommodated.
Topics Discussed
4.
Lives lost after rescue plea denied: Sydney Morning Herald, Dated July 8, 2012
5.
Go back to where you came from, says Abbott: Indonesia: The Age, Dated July 9, 2012
Summary of Comments by Topic/Theme 4
During the conversation, almost everyone was aware of the tragic incident that took so
many lives, Amended to s47E(d) only
FOI Page 18 of 881
FOI Document #3
Amended to s47E(d) only
5
Most RAS are aware that the Australian government is trying to do something to stop boat
arrivals, Amended to s47E(d) only
How often are you in contact with family/friends in home country and/or Australia?
Most regularly contact their families/ friends, once a week or at least once each two weeks.
CLO’s Comments: Insight, Recommendations, Notes re changing perspectives, etc
CLO returned to duty station in Makassar on the 5th July and the next day began to counsel the
caseload.
s47E(d)
FOI Page 19 of 881
FOI Document #3
Patterns in Interviewee Access to Information
In Makassar DC more restrictive rules in terms of accessing internet and mobile phones have been
introduced, in the past all RAS were able to have a mobile phone, and could contact anyone in the
world, including Australia and their country of origin, they were also had access to internet enabled
computers, but now they are allowed to use their mobile phone and computer for limited amount of
time per day, they can not have access to their phones and computers, because the immigration keep
it away from them.
They still have access to TV with foreign channels, and receive the Jakarta post and BBC News from
IOM staff.
The main sources of information among the IMs in DC are:
Word of mouth ( talking to each other and sharing information)
Calling family and friends all over the world(limited access)
Contacting family and friends through internet (Skype, yahoo messenger, face book etc...)
limited access.
Accessing some Indonesian newspapers, BBC Dari service stories printed and distributed by
a parallel IOM initiative.
News stories and other material provided by CLO
Most frequently accessed websites with limited access
o BBC Dari-Language service
o
www.facebook.com
o
www.yahoo.com
News papers
o BBC Dari news
o Jakarta post
TV
o Two TV sets with access to foreign channels (Pakistan TV, Afghan TV, and other
English news channels
Those who are living in community accommodation in Makassar, have access to all media materials,
they have mobile phones, internet enabled computer, TV with foreign news channels (eg Aljazeera),
and having contact with local people in the community.
There is no restriction on their movements in the city.
FOI Page 20 of 881
FOI Document #3
Dari-speaking CLO Counseling Session
BiWeekly Report
9 - 13 July 2012/Bogor
PM note: Existing Bogor-based CLO was replaced by a new full-time officer on July 9. The new
CLO has three years experience working with the caseload on a parallel IOM project.
Specific Locations of Interviews
KENANGA I
CANGKUDU
KANANGA II
UBERSAM HOTEL
ESTEN
Numbers/Demographics of IMs
At the time of this reporting, there are a total of 459 migrants in Cisarua/Bogor, 275 of whom are
Dari/Farsi-speaking 161 Afghans (95 male and 66 female) and 114 Iranians (58 male and 55 female).
Currently there are seven other nationalities under IOM care in this area: Sri Lankan (77), Iraqis (67),
Pakistanis (two), Palestinian (21), Algerian (one), Myanmar (12) and Syrian (four).
Number/Description of Interviewees
During reporting period CLO counseled a total of 45 Afghans between the ages of 16 and 59 who are
under IOM care and three individuals who are not under any organization’s care, who came to the
IOM Information Centre.
CLO counseled them in small groups of between three and five people
During the same reporting period the CLO also counseled 25 Iranians between ages of 25 and 48 who
are also under IOM care in Puncak.
Topics Discussed
1. Lives lost after rescue plea denied – 8 July 2012, The Sydney Morning Herald
Summary of Comments by Topic/Theme
Amended to s47E(d) only
FOI Page 21 of 881
FOI Document #3
Amended to s47E(d) only
How often are you in contact with family/friends in home country and/or Australia?
Most of them have regular contact with their families mainly by mobile and some using Internet and
contacting their families and friends through Skype.
CLO’s Comments: Insight, Recommendations, Notes re changing perspectives, etc
Amended to s47E(d) only
Patterns in Interviewee Access to Information
The Puncak caseload is generally well informed, reflecting wide access to information
because they are living in community- based accommodation and they are free to have access
to variety of sources of information.
They are reading the Farsi BBC News website as well a
s (http://www.aapa.org.au/) website
run by Afghan Australian Philanthropic Association in Australia. The Kabul press weblog is a
Farsi weblog run by Afghans, Quettablogfa and some time they put news and articles about
the refugees and Australian policies about the refugees.
news.com.au, newsnow.com.au, abc.net.au
Some of them read the Australian Immigration website and follow the news of Australian
policy on that website.
They also have mobile phones and are contacting their friends or family members when ever
they like.
The IOM information centre is a way to get information. They are coming to the information
centre almost every day. They have access to the CLO binder that contains translations of all
the news stories provided by ACBPS as well as printout of selected BBC news stories from a
parallel IOM project.
IOM’s information centre, its social workers and Medical team are located in KENANGA I, a
townhouse style cluster of six houses and 15 rooms most of which are occupied by migrants; through
from time to time they are also rented to tourists.
FOI Page 22 of 881
FOI Document #3
The caseload regularly visits the centre for health- and social services assistance and to use the small
library in the information centre as well as coming there to ask questions about their cases and other
issues.
People who are not under IOM care also use the centre form time to time, asking questions, using the
library and reading the latest news stories which are translated to Dari and Tamil and put into the
CLO’s Information Binder for that purposes.
There is an IOM Medical team which is mainly used for administrative purposes and issuing pre-
embarkation check- ups referral for approved refugees being relocated to other countries. Follow ups
of referral from GPS to medical specialists and Hospitals.
FOI Page 23 of 881
FOI Document #4
s47G
s47G, s47F
s47F
s47F
s47F
s47G
s47G
s
4
7
F
FOI Page 24 of 881
FOI Document #4
s47G
s47F
s47F
s47F
s47G
s47G
s47G, s47F
s47F
s47F
s47F
s47F
s47F
s47G
FOI Page 25 of 881
FOI Document #4
s47G(1)(a)
s47F
s47F
FOI Page 26 of 881
FOI Document #4
s47F
s47F
s47F
s47F
FOI Page 27 of 881
FOI Document #8
Consolidated CLO Reports
Bogor, Makassar and Medan
01 Oct - 12 Oct 2012
PM Note:
All CLOs were in their duty stations, Bogor/Puncak, Medan and Makassar during the reporting period.
The first week of the next biweekly reporting period (due Oct 29) will see a Dari-speaking CLO travel to
Pekanbaru IDC in Riau province, and the Tamil-speaker traveling to Tanjung Pinang IDC, in Kepuluan
Riau province.
Focus of CLO Counseling during the reporting period:
Movement of Refugees and Asylum Seekers to Nauru/offshore processing
AVR from Christmas Island to Sri Lanka
Changes to Family Reunification Rules
1. BOGOR/PUNCAK
Specific Locations of Interviews
KENANGA I
IOM’s information centre, its social workers and clinic are located in KENANGA I, a townhouse style
cluster of 6 houses and 15 rooms most of which are occupied by migrants; through from time to time they
are also rented to tourists.
CANGKUDU
Cangkudu is a rooming house consisting of 27 rooms connected to Kenanga I.
There are 33 migrants: 10 Afghans, 17 Sri-Lankans, three Iraqis, one Ethiopian and two Iranians.
KANANGA II
KANANGA II is a townhouse-style cluster of 4 houses and 29 rooms under IOM’s care.
There are 51 migrants: 11 Afghans, eight Sri-Lankan, 11 Iraqis, 16 Iranians and five Palestinians.
UBERSAM HOTEL
Ubersam Hotel partly rented by IOM in which 107 migrants reside: 54 Afghans, 5 Sri- Lankans, 19 Iraqis,
22 Iranians, two Pakistanis and five Myanmar citizens.
Church World Services Centre in Cipaun
Numbers/Demographics of IMs
At the time of this reporting, there are a total of 474 migrants in Cisarua/Bogor, 276 of whom are
Dari/Farsi and Pashto speaking Afghans (160: 97 male and 63 female), Pakistanis (two Male) and Iranians
(114: 54 male and 60 female).
Number/Description of Interviewees
During reporting period CLO counseled a total of 60 Afghans and Iranians migrants under IOM care, and
roughly 30 individuals who are not under any organization’s care.
CLO counseled them in small groups of between two and eight people.
1
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FOI Document #8
Summary of Comments
Movement to Nauru
No significant new reaction to the launch of off shore processing.
Amended to s47E(d) only
AVR from Christmas Island to Sri Lanka
Nothing new to report.
Amended to s47E(d) only
Family reunification
Nothing new to report.
Amended to s47E(d) only
CLO’s Comments: Insight, Recommendations, Notes re changing perspectives
Amended to s47E(d) only
Patterns in Interviewee Access to Information
The Puncak caseload is generally well informed, reflecting wide access to information because
they are living in community- based accommodation and they are free to have access to variety of
sources of information.
They are reading the Farsi BBC News website as well a
s (http://www.aapa.org.au/) website run
by Afghan Australian Philanthropic Association in Australia. The Kabul press weblog is a Farsi
weblog run by Afghans and some time they put news and articles about the refugees and
Australian policies about the refugees.
news.com.au, newsnow.com.au, abc.net.au
Some of them read the Australian Immigration website and follow the news of Australian policy
on that website.
They also have mobile phones and are contacting their friends or family members when ever
they like.
The IOM information centre is a way to get information. They are coming to the information
centre almost every day. They have access to the CLO binder that contains translations of all the
news stories provided by ACBPS as well as printout of selected BBC news stories from a parallel
IOM project.
2
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FOI Document #8
2. MAKASSAR
Specific Locations of Interviews
Makassar Immigration Detention Centre
Hotels and Rooming Houses
Wisma Permata Hotel:
It is a hotel type accommodation, where 13 Afghans, four Sri Lankan, and one Iranian are
accommodated.
Wisma Favorite:
It is hotel type accommodation, where four Afghans, seven Iranians, and two Pakistanis are being
accommodated.
ZN Guest House:
This is a four story building consists of 30 rooms for 11 Afghans, 15 Iraqis and 40 Iranians.
Borong Life House:
This is hotel type accommodation where 18 Afghans, three Iraqis, four Iranian, three Sudanese, 14
from Myanmar and nine from Somali are accommodated.
Numbers/Demographics of IMs
During the reporting period there were a total of 259 RAS receiving IOM assistance in Makassar,
including 104 Afghans (88 male and 16 female), four Sri Lankan (four male), 18 Iraqis (12 male and six
female), 56 Iranians (31 male and 25 female), 28 Vietnamese (25 male and three female), three Pakistani (
three male), four Sudanese (four male), 21 from Myanmar (17 male and four female), 20 Somalis (14 male
and six female) and one Ethiopian (male) .
There are a total of 91 RAS in Makassar DC and 168 RAS in the community, under IOM care.
Number/Description of Interviewees
During the reporting period, CLO counseled approx 30 Afghan men, age between 16 to 55 years inside
the IDC; the counseling sessions took place in the common area of the IDC and individual rooms. The
counseling sessions occurred on more than one occasion and were held for small group of one to three
people in each group. One to one sessions were also provided.
Approx 20 Afghan men and women living in communities under IOM care were counseled, in a groups
of one to four RAS. Each session was held in the common area of their residence. Approx 20 Iranian, age
between17-50 were provided counseling in the common area of their hotel, where they are being
accommodated. In both instances, the counseling sessions were conducted on more than one occasion
Summary of Comments
Movement to Nauru
All IMs under IOM care are aware of offshore processing and the determination of the Australian
government to send boat arrivals to Nauru and PNG Manus Island.Amended to s47E(d)
only
3
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Amended to s47E(d) only
AVR
Nothing new to report.
s47E(d)
.
Family Reunification
Nothing new to report.
Amdended to s47E(d) only
CLO’s Comments: Insight, Recommendations, Notes re changing perspectives
The caseload is fully aware of the new procedures.
s47E(d)
4
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FOI Document #8
Patterns in Interviewee Access to Information
In Makassar DC more restrictive rules in terms of accessing internet and mobile phones have been
introduced, in the past all RAS were able to have a mobile phone, and could contact anyone in the world,
including Australia and their country of origin, they were also had access to internet enabled computers,
but now they are allowed to use their mobile phone and computer for limited amount of time per day,
they can not have access to their phones and computers, because the immigration keep it away from
them.
They still have access to TV with foreign channels, and receive the Jakarta post and BBC News from IOM
staff.
The main sources of information among the IMs in DC are:
Word of mouth ( talking to each other and sharing information)
Calling family and friends all over the world(limited access)
Contacting family and friends through internet (Skype, yahoo messenger, face book etc...) limited
access.
Accessing some Indonesian newspapers, BBC Dari service stories printed and distributed by a
parallel IOM initiative.
News stories and other material provided by CLO
Most frequently accessed websites with limited access
o BBC Dari-Language service
o
www.facebook.com
o
www.yahoo.com
News papers
o BBC Dari news
o Jakarta Post
TV
o Three TV sets with access to foreign channels (Pakistan TV, Afghan TV, and other
English news channels
Those who are living in community accommodation in Makassar, have access to all media materials, they
have mobile phones, internet enabled computer, TV with foreign news channels (eg Aljazeera), and
having contact with local people in the community.
There is no restriction on their movements in the city.
5
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FOI Document #8
3. MEDAN
Specific Locations of Interviews
Belawan Immigration Detention Centre
Community Living Facility:
YPAP 1
Numbers/Demographics of IMs
At the time of this report there are a total of 655 RAS receiving IOM support in Medan, including 222
Afghans, 212 Sri Lankans, two Indians, 24 Iraqis, 10 Iranians, 11 Pakistanis, four Somalis and 170 from
Myanmar.
There are 160 RAS in Belawan detention centre, five in Polonia Immigration Office and 495 RAS in
community facilities under IOM care, including 106 female RAS and 549 male RAS.
Number/Description of Interviewees CLO counselled 117 Sri Lankans (103 men / 14 women) under IOM care in community facilities and the
IDC. Single male age 16-42, single women age 17-42.
Counselling place in the DC: 51 male; 11 female and the Community housing: 52 male; 3 female
Summary of Comments
Movements to Nauru
The RAS are now well aware that Australia is serious about implementing off-shore
processing. Amended to s47E(d) only
AVR from Christmas Island to Sri Lanka
Nothing new to report.
6
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FOI Document #8
Amended to s47E(d) only
Changes to Family Reunification
Nothing new to report.
Amended to s47E(d) only
CLO’s Comments: Insight, Recommendations, Notes re changing perspectives
Amended to s47E(d) only
7
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FOI Document #9
Dari-speaking CLO Counseling Session
BiWeekly Report
14-29 June 2012/Bogor
Specific Locations of Interviews
KENANGA I
IOM’s information centre, its social workers and clinic are located in KENANGA I, a
townhouse style cluster of six houses and 15 rooms most of which are occupied by migrants,
through from time to time they are also rented to tourists. The caseload regularly visits the
centre for health and social services assistance and to use the small library in the information
centre as well as coming there to ask questions about their cases and other issues.
People who are not under IOM care also use the centre form time to time, asking questions,
using the library and reading the latest news stories which are translated to Dari and Tamil
and put into the CLO’s Information Binder for that purposes. There is also an IOM clinic
there which is primarily used for pre-embarkation check-ups for approved refugees being
relocated to other countries.
CANGKUDU
Cangkudu is a rooming house consisting of 27 rooms connected to Kenanga I. There are 31
migrants (16 Afghans, 12 Sri-Lankans, 3 Iraqis).
KANANGA II
KANANGA II is a townhouse-style cluster of 4 houses and 29 rooms under IOM’s care.
There are 39 migrants (11 Afghans, 13 Sri-Lankan, 7 Iraqis, 8 Iranians).
UBERSAM HOTEL
Ubersam Hotel partly rented by IOM in which 124 migrants reside: 57 Afghans, seven Sri-
Lankans, 23 Iraqis, 30 Iranians, 2 Pakistanis and 5 Myanmarese.
Numbers/Demographics of IMs
At the time of reporting, there are a total of 460 migrants in Cisarua/Bogor, 274 of whom are
Dari/Farsi-speaking Afghans (161: 95 male and 66 female) and Iranians (113: 58 male and 55
female). Currently there are seven other nationalities under IOM care in this area: Sri
Lankan (77), Iraqi (69), Pakistani (2), Palestinian (21), Algerian (1), Myanmar (5) and Syrian
(4).
Number/Description of Interviewees
During reporting period CLO counseled a total of 56 Afghans between the ages of 16 and 59
who are under IOM care and five individuals who are not under any organization’s care,
who came to the information centre. CLO counseled them in small groups of between three
and five people. During the same reporting period the CLO also counseled 35 Iranians
between the ages of 25 and 48 who are also under IOM care in Puncak.
Topics Discussed
1. More refugees: the Green’s solution to the asylum-seekers crisis.
2. Boat sinking re-ignites Australia asylum debate.
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FOI Document #9
Summary of Comments by Topic/Theme
Amended to s47E(d) only
Amended to s47E(d) only
2. How often are you in contact with family/friends in home country and/or
Australia?
Most of the RAS have regular contact with their families mainly by mobile and some
using Internet and contacting their families and friends through Skype.
FOI Page 39 of 881
FOI Document #9
CLO’s Comments: Insight, Recommendations, Notes re changing perspectives, etc
Amended to s47E(d) only
Patterns in Interviewee Access to Information
The Puncak caseload is generally well informed, reflecting wide access to
information because they are living in community- based accommodation and they
are free to have access to variety of sources of information.
They are reading the Farsi BBC News website as well as
(http://www.aapa.org.au/)
website run by Afghan Australian Philanthropic Association in Australia. The Kabul
press weblog is a Farsi weblog run by Afghans and some time they put news and
articles about the refugees and Australian policies about the refugees.
news.com.au, newsnow.com.au, abc.net.au
Some of them read the Australian Immigration website and follow the news of
Australian policy on that website.
They also have mobile phones and are contacting their friends or family members
when ever they like.
The IOM information centre is a way to get information. They are coming to the
information centre almost every day. They have access to the CLO binder that
contains translations of all the news stories provided by ACBPS as well as printout of
selected BBC news stories from a parallel IOM project.
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FOI Document #9
Tamil-Speaking CLO Counseling Session
Biweekly Report
25 – 29 June / Medan, North Sumatra
Specific Locations of Interviews
Community Living Facility:
YPAP1
Top In
Numbers/Demographics of IMs
At the time of reporting there are a total of 571 RAS receiving IOM support in Medan, including 221
Afghans, 166 Sri Lankans, 23 Iraqis, nine Iranians and 152 from Myanmar. There are 84 RAS in the
Belawan detention centre and 487 RAS in community facilities under IOM care.
Number/Description of Interviewees
CLO counseled 3 female Sri Lankan RAS aged 22 - 64 and 8 male Sri Lankan RAS aged 22– 35 at
the community facilities. All sessions (lasting 3 hours) were held outside the clinic and at the RAS’
homes at the community facility.
Topics Discussed
1. Boat Sinking Re-ignites Australia Asylum Debate – 25 June 2012
2. More Refugees: The Greens’ Solution to the Asylum-Seeker Crisis – 25 June 2012
Summary of Comments by Topic/Theme
Amended to s47E(d) only
FOI Page 41 of 881
FOI Document #9
Amended to s 47E(d) only
2. How often are you in contact with family/friends in home country and/or Australia?
The RAS at the community facility are in regular contact with their family/friends in Sri Lanka
and/or Australia whenever they wish to.
CLO’s Comments: Insight, Recommendations, Notes re changing perspectives, etc
Amended to s47E(d) only
Patterns in Interviewee Access to Information
The only mainstream news available here on TV is in Bahasa Indonesia which is not widely
understood. Most of the RAS in community facilities read and watch news on the internet, such as
BBC, CNN, ABC for English language and Makkal TV, Sun TV, tamilnet.com, tamilwin.com,
lankasrinews.com, athirvu.com and manithan.com for Tamil language. Some of them have their own
laptops. All the RAS in the community facilities have mobiles phones legitimately obtained. These
people are well informed on the situation in Sri Lanka and other countries such Australia, Canada,
France, Switzerland and Malaysia. Some of them have family and friends living abroad.
The RAS in the detention centre have “black” mobile phones and are able to keep in touch with their
families and relatives in Sri Lanka and other countries such as Australia and Canada. They are also in
touch with their friends in other countries and in the community facilities in Indonesia.
FOI Page 42 of 881
FOI Document #10
Summary CLO Reports
28 September 2012
Dari/Farsi CLO counseling was conducted in Kupang, NTT, for the first time since the second phase
of the project began, and in Bogor/Puncak.
Tamil CLO counseling was conducted in Medan, North Sumatra.
A total of 171 migrants from six countries were counseled.
At the request of ACBPS, the reporting cycle was reduced from two weeks to one in order to capture
reactions to the following three areas.
1. Movements of SL Nationals to Nauru
2. AVR from Christmas Island to Sri Lanka
3. Changes to Family Reunification Policy
The project’s agreed biweekly reporting cycle resumes: the next report is due Oct 15 unless
circumstances warrant.
KUPANG, NTT
All counseling sessions were conducted at the Kupang IDC.
CLO counseled approx 50 Afghans (50 men), 12 Iranians (10 male, two female), 15 Iraqis (all male),
five from Myanmar (all male), 3 from Sudan (all male) and 1 from Pakistan (one male).
Movements to Nauru
-
All irregular migrants in Kupang Detention Center are aware of the movements from
Christmas Island to Nauru. Amended to s47E(d) only
Amended to s47E(d) only
Amended to s47E(d) only
FOI Page 43 of 881
FOI Document #10
Amended to s47E(d) only
FOI Page 44 of 881
FOI Document #10
BOGOR/PUNCAK
All counseling sessions were conducted at residential housing facilities.
The CLO counseled 17 Afghans (15 male and 2 Female), 12 Iranians (7 men / 5 women) and 19
Pakistanis (all male).
Movement to Nauru
-
They accept that Australia is serious but otherwise nothing new to report.
-
Amended to s47E(d) only
FOI Page 45 of 881
FOI Document #10
MEDAN
Tamil-speaking CLO counselled 37 Sri Lankans (32 men / 5 women) under IOM care in community
facilities and the Immigration Detention Centre in Belawan.
Amended to s47E(d)
They now appreciate that Australia is serious with the implementation of off-shore
processing -Amended to s47E(d) only
Changes to Family Reunification Rules
There was little response to this news.
Amended to s47E(d) only
FOI Page 46 of 881
FOI Document #11
Tamil-Speaking CLO Counseling Session
Biweekly Report
Period Ending: 28 March 2013
Specific Locations of Interviews
Belawan Detention Centre – Medan
Kalideres Detention Centre – Kalideres, Jakarta
Community Living Facility:
Anggerek - Bogor
Kenanga 1 - Bogor
Cangkudu - Bogor
Esten Torpedo – Bogor
Rainbow Grafika - Jakarta
Numbers/Demographics of IMs
In Medan, at the time of reporting there were a total of 1,028 RAS receiving IOM support
including 325 Afghans, 265 Sri Lankans, 27 Iraqis, 24 Iranians, 330 Myanmarese, 4 Somalis, 34
Palestinians, 12 Pakistanis, 5 Bangladeshis, 1 Kuwaiti and 1 Syrian. There are 270 RAS in the
Belawan DC and 758 RAS in community facilities under IOM care (including 856 male RAS and
172 female RAS).
In Bogor, at the time of reporting there are a total of 362 RAS receiving IOM support including
119 Afghans, 47 Sri Lankans, 40 Iraqis, 103 Iranians, 32 Palestinians, 13 Myanmarese, 2
Pakistanis, 1 Algerian, 4 Syrians and 1 Ethiopian. There are a total of 200 male RAS and 162
female RAS, all of whom live in the community facilities.
In Jakarta community housing, at the time of reporting there are a total of 96 RAS receiving IOM
support including 64 Afghans, 16 Iranians, two Iraqis, 1 Moroccan, 4 Palestinians and 9 Sri
Lankans. There are a total 83 male RAS and 13 female RAS, all of whom live in the community
facilities.
FOI Page 47 of 881
FOI Document #11
In Kalideres, at the time of reporting there are a total of 89 RAS receiving IOM support including
46 Afghans, 4 Sri Lankans, one Iraqi, 9 Iranians, 4 Myanmarese, 1 Eritrean, 1 Rwandan, 4
Sudanese, 17 Syrians and 2 Somalis. There are 73 RAS in the Kalideres Detention Centre and 16
RAS in community facilities under IOM care which includes 75 male RAS and 14 female RAS.
Number/Description of Interviewees
In Medan at Belawan DC, the CLO counseled 8 single male RAS aged 24 to 39. All sessions; which
lasted for about one hour were held outside the clinic at the Detention Centre.
In Bogor, the CLO counseled 5 families under IOM care and 2 families who are not under IOM
care consisting of 6 males RAS aged 17 to 38 and 12 females RAS aged 16 to 65. Additional
counseling was provided to 1 single male RAS under IOM care and 4 single males who are not
under IOM care aged 25 to 44, and 2 single females RAS aged 22 to 24 at the community
facilities. All sessions which lasted for about 1 to 2 hours were held at the IOM sub-office and
the RAS’ homes at the community facilities.
In Jakarta, the CLO counseled 7 single males under IOM care and 3 single males who are not
under IOM care aged 27 to 46 at the community facility. One session which lasted approximately
two and a half hours was held at the common room of the community facility.
In Kalideres, the CLO counseled 4 single males under IOM care aged 19 to 38 at the Kalideres
Detention Centre. One session which lasted for approximately two hours was held for all of
them at the meeting room of the Detention Centre.
Topics Discussed
1. Afghan asylum-seeker’s deportation unlawful, court rules – 20 March 2013, The
Australian
2. Sri Lanka’s navy accused of helping people smugglers – 6 March 2013, The Age
3. No changes after Sri Lanka detention report – 28 February 2013, World News Australia
4. Off-shore processing and the Australian election in general
FOI Page 48 of 881
FOI Document #11
Summary of Comments by Topic/Theme (use direct quotes if suitable)
Topic 1: Afghan asylum-seeker’s deportation unlawful, court rules – 20 March 2013, The
Australian
Amended to s47E(d) only
Topic 2: Sri Lanka’s navy accused of helping people smugglers – 6 March 2013, The Age
Amended to s47E(d) only
FOI Page 49 of 881
FOI Document #11
Amended to s47E(d) only
Topic 3: No changes after Sri Lanka detention report – 28 February 2013, World News
Australia
Amended to s47E(d) only
FOI Page 50 of 881
FOI Document #11
s47F
Topic 4: Off-shore processing and the Australian election in general
In general, the RAS are now fully aware of the conditions in Nauru and Manus Island. Amende
d to
s47E(d)
only
FOI Page 51 of 881
FOI Document #11
Amended to s47E(d) only
How often are you in contact with family/friends in home country and/or Australia?
The RAS at the community facility are in regular contact with their family/friends in Sri Lanka
and/or Australia whenever they wish to. The RAS at the detention centre are in contact with
family/friends in home country and/or Australia as and when it is possible.
CLO’s Comments: Insight, Recommendations, Changing perspectives, etc
Amended to s47E(d) only
Patterns in Interviewee Access to Information
The only mainstream news available here on TV is in Bahasa Indonesia which is not widely
understood. Most of the RAS in community facilities read and watch news on the internet, such
as BBC, CNN, ABC for English language and Makkal TV, Sun TV, tamilnet.com, tamilwin.com,
lankasrinews.com, athirvu.com and manithan.com for Tamil language. Some of them have their
own laptops.
All the RAS in the community facilities have mobiles phones legitimately obtained. These people
are well informed on the situation in Sri Lanka and other countries such Australia, Canada,
France, Switzerland and Malaysia. Some of them have family and friends living abroad.
The RAS in the detention centre have “black” mobile phones and are able to keep in touch with
their families and relatives in Sri Lanka and other countries such as Australia and Canada. They
are also in touch with their friends in other countries and in the community facilities in
Indonesia.
FOI Page 52 of 881
FOI Document #11
Dari/Farsi Speaking CLO Counseling Session
Biweekly Report
Makassar, South Sulawesi & Pontianak, West Kalimantan
28 March 2013
Pontianak, West Kalimantan: Description of Facility
Note, CLO counseled RAS in Pontianak IDC for the first time during this reporting period.
Pontianak DC is a one story structure consisting of two main parts, administrative part (for
immigration personnel) and accommodation facility for RAS, consisting of 12 rooms (eight for RAS
and four rooms for illegal fisherman from other countries). There is a small medical clinic run by
IOM - The Medical doctor visits the IDC three times per week to provide medical services, Specialist
Doctor is available twice a week. There are leisure activities available for the RAS, however they
are not allowed go outside for any activity. There is a small library, which contains around 200
books, mainly in Dari and English. English and Indonesian language classes are available inside DC
for RAS to attend.
Pontianak: Numbers/Demographics of IMs
During the reporting period there were a total of 78 RAS (all male) receiving IOM assistance in
Pontianak, including 65 Afghans, 2 Iraqis, 9 Iranians, 1 Myanmarese and 1 Kuwaiti. There are a
total of 77 RAS in Pontianak DC and 1 RAS is living in private house in Pontianak, under IOM
care.
Pontianak: Number/Description of Interviewees
During the reporting period, CLO has counseled approximately 50 Afghan and seven Iranian
men age between 17 to 55 years inside Pontianak DC. The counseling sessions took place in the
common area of the DC and individual room, where RAS are residing. The counseling sessions
were held for small and large groups of five to 15 people in each group. One-on-one sessions
were also provided.
Makassar: Numbers/Demographics of IMs
FOI Page 53 of 881
FOI Document #11
During the reporting period there were 305 RAS receiving IOM assistance in Makassar,
including 173 Afghans (139 male & 34 female), 5 Sri Lankans (all male), 12 Iraqis (7 male & 5
female), 70 Iranians (42 male & 28 female), 1 Vietnamese (male), 18 Pakistani (17 male & 1
female), 4 Sudanese (all male), 15 Myanmarese (11 male & 4 female), 6 Somalis (4 male & 2
female) and 1 Ethiopian (male). There are a total of 73 RAS in Makassar DC and 232 RAS in the
community facility, and 111 RAS in Kendari under IOM care. The grand total is 416 RAS.
Makassar: Number/Description of Interviewees
During the reporting period, CLO has counseled inside DC around 35 Afghan men, age between
16 to 55 years. The counseling session took place in the common area of the DC and individual
room, where RAS are residing. The counseling sessions were held for small group of one to
three people in each group. One-on-one sessions were also provided. Approximately 30 Afghan
men and women living in communities under IOM care were counseled, the counseling sessions
were in a group of one to four RAS, each session was held in the common area of their residence.
Approximately 10 Iranian, age between17-50 were counseled in the common area of their hotel,
where they are being accommodated.
Topics Discussed
1. Amended to s47E(d) only
2. Afghan asylum-seeker’s deportation unlawful, court rules, AAP March 20, 2013
3. Offshore processing and bridging visa
Summary of Comments by Topic/Theme
Amended to s47E(d) only
FOI Page 54 of 881
FOI Document #11
Amended to s47E(d) only
Topic 2: Afghan asylum-seeker’s deportation unlawful, court rules,March20,
2013
Amended to s47E(d) only
FOI Page 55 of 881
FOI Document #11
Amended to s47E(d) only
Topic 3: Offshore processing and bridging visa Makassar
Makassar: The Makassar caseload is aware of the new regulations and the chances of people
being sent to any offshore processing centers of Manus Island or Nauru, if they enter Australia
by boat. Amended to s47E(d) only
FOI Page 56 of 881
FOI Document #11
Amended to s47E(d) only
Amended to s47E(d) only
How often are you in contact with family/friends in home country and/or Australia?
Most RAS regularly contact their families/ friends, once a week or at least once every two
weeks.
CLO’s Comments: Insight, Recommendations, Notes re changing perspectives, etc
FOI Page 57 of 881
FOI Document #11
Makassar
The caseload is well informed about the latest developments and latest news.
s47E(d)
Pontianak
Pontianak case load’s access to digital news is limited, because they don’t have any computers
inside DC, however they can access it through their internet enabled cell phones.
s47E(d)
Patterns in Interviewee Access to Information
Makassar
Makassar IDC has restrictive rules in terms of accessing internet and mobile phones. They are
only allowed to use their mobile phone and computer for limited amount of time per day. They
still have access to TV with foreign channels, and receive the Jakarta Post and BBC News from
IOM staff.
The main sources of information among the IMs in DC are:
FOI Page 58 of 881
FOI Document #11
Word of mouth (talking to each other and sharing information)
Calling family and friends all over the world (limited access)
Contacting family and friends through internet (Skype, Yahoo Messenger, Facebook etc...)
limited access.
Accessing some Indonesian newspapers, BBC Dari service stories printed and distributed
by a parallel IOM initiative.
News stories and other material provided by CLO
Most frequently accessed websites with limited access
-BBC Dari-Language service
-www.facebook.com
-www.yahoo.com
News papers
-BBC Dari news
-Jakarta post
Television
Three TV sets with access to foreign channels (Pakistan TV, Afghan TV, and other English news
channels. Those who are living in community accommodation in Makassar, have access to all
media materials, they have mobile phones, internet enabled computer, TV with foreign news
channels (such as Al Jazeera), and having contact with local people in the community. There is
no restriction on their movements in the city.
Pontianak
There is only one TV set with access to foreign and local channels in Pontianak DC. Most RAS
have Mobile phone in which they can access the internet, and can have contact with friends and
family member all over the world
The main sources of information among RAS in Pontianak DC are:
Word of mouth (talking to each other and sharing information)
Calling family and friends all over the world in particular Australia and country of origin
Based on the latest information RAS were promised by immigration office to provide them with
Wi-Fi access to Internet, because it is cheaper than accessing through modem.
There is a small library with around 200 books to be used by RAS. Additionally BBC Dari service
stories printed and distributed by a parallel IOM initiative. Jakarta Post is also being distributed
three times in a week for RAS to read and get information. At the time of visit there was no
computer inside DC for RAS to use.
FOI Page 59 of 881
FOI Document #11
Dari/Farsi Speaking CLO Counseling Session
Biweekly Report
Medan - North Sumatra
28th March 2013
Locations of Interviews
Belawan IDC, Lestari, YPAP1, YPAP2, Cendana, Virgo, Top Inn Hotel, Sandhy Putra.
Numbers/Demographics
At the time of this report there are a total of 1,028 RAS receiving IOM support in Medan,
including 325 Afghans, 265 Sri Lankans, 27 Iraqis, 24 Iranians, 330 Myanmar, four Somalis,
34 Palestinians, 12 Pakistanis, 5 Bangladeshis, 1 Kuwaiti and 1 Syrian. These numbers are
including children living in Immigration Detention Centers and Community Facilities. There
are 270 RAS in the Belawan Detention Centre and 758 RAS in community facilities under
IOM care which includes 172 female RAS and 856 male RAS.
Number/Description of Interviewees
During the reporting period, CLO counseled inside the Belawan IDC 20 Afghans, 4 Iranians,
and 1 Iraqi aged between 18 – 55 years old. The counseling sessions took place in the
common area of the DC and individual room where RAS are residing. The counseling
sessions were held in small group of around one to ten people per group. One-on-one
sessions were also provided. Approximately 35 Afghans and 2 Iranians aged between 16 - 55
living in the community under IOM care were also counseled. The counseling sessions were
in groups between one to ten RAS. Each session was held in the common area of their
residence and individual room.
Topic Discussed
1. Australian Federal Election on September 2013
2. People going to Australia by boat
3. Refugee resettlement Process to Australia
Summary of Comments by Topic/Theme
Topic 1: Australia’s Federal Election
FOI Page 60 of 881
FOI Document #11
Virtually all questions from RAS about the Australian Federal Election relate to the prospect
of major changes in the government’s policies towards RAS: Amended to s47E(d) only
Topic 2: People going to Australia by Boat:
Questions were asked regarding people who go by boat to Australia. CLO explained the new
Australian immigration policy on Irregular Maritime Arrivals. Amended to s47E(d) only
FOI Page 61 of 881
FOI Document #11
Amended to s47E(d) only
How often are you in contact with family/friends in home country and/or Australia?
As there are no phones and Internet allowed at Belawan Detention Center, most of the RAS
have not spoken to their families for months. At the Community Housing most RAS contact
family/friend at least once a week.
CLO’s Comments: Insight, Recommendations, Notes re changing perspectives, etc.
Amended to s47E(d) only
FOI Page 62 of 881
FOI Document #11
s47E(d)
Patterns in Interviewee Access to Information
RAS in the Belawan Immigration Detention Center have no access to the Internet,
telephone, International news service on TVs. They can only watch movies or local TV
channels. They receive limited English newspaper and limited newspapers in their own
language.
There is limited amount of “BLACK” mobile phones are used by RAS. This is how they talk to
their family and friends to get information from Afghanistan, Pakistan, Indonesia and
Australia.
The main sources of information among the RAS in Detention Center are:
- Word of mouth talking to each other and sharing information
- Talking to IOM officers and medical staff
- News stories and New articles from BBC in their own language provided by IOM
Officers and CLO
- The Jakarta Globe newspaper once a week
Those who are living in community accommodation in Medan have access to all media
materials, they have mobile phones, Internet enabled computer, TV and have contacts with
local people in the community. There is no restriction with their movement in the city
FOI Page 63 of 881
FOI Document #12
Daril-Speaking CLO Counseling Session
Biweekly Report
09 to 20 December 2012
Bogor / Puncak
Specific Locations of Interviews
Bogor, West Java
Community Living Facility:
Anggerek
Kenanga 1
Cangkudu
Ubersam
Villa Lora
Esten Torpedo
Kenanga 11
Numbers/Demographics of IMs
In Bogor, at the time of this reporting, there are a total of 429 migrants receiving IOM support,
including 151 Afghans, 53 Sri Lankans, 63 Iraqis, 108 Iranians, two Pakistanis, 33 Palestinians, 13
Myanmarese, one Algerian, four Syrians and one Ethiopian. There are a total 239 males and 190
females.
Number/Description of Interviewees
In Bogor, CLO counseled 11 families consisting of 10 male aged 20 – 52 and 12 females aged 18 –43,
along with 8 male single from Pakistan aged 25 – 35 and 12 single Iranian male aged 23 – 40 the
community facilities and out of the community.
All sessions which lasted for about one to one and half hours were held in Kananga 1 and other
places.
Topics Discussed
1. The impact of bridging visas on people’s decision-making.
2. Nauru condition
FOI Page 64 of 881
FOI Document #12
Summary of Comments by Topic/Theme
1. The refugees and asylum seeker were already well informed about the issuing of bridging
visa.Amended to s47E(d) only
FOI Page 65 of 881
FOI Document #12
Amended to s47E(d) only
2. There were deferent views about conditions at Nauru.Amended to s47E(d) only
How often are you in contact with family/friends in home country and/or Australia?
The RAS at the community facility are in regular contact with their family/friends in their home
country and Australia whenever they wish to.
FOI Page 66 of 881
FOI Document #12
CLO’s Comments: Insight, Recommendations, Notes re changing perspectives, etc
Nothing to report.
Patterns in Interviewee Access to Information
The only mainstream (non-cable) news available in the community is in Bahasa Indonesia which is
not widely understood. Most of the RAS in community facilities read and watch news on the Internet,
such as BBC, CNN, ABC for English language Most of them have their own laptops.
All RAS in the community facilities have mobiles phones legitimately obtained. These people are well
informed on the situation in Afghanistan, Iran and Pakistan and other countries such Australia,
Canada, France, Switzerland and Malaysia. Some of them have family and friends living abroad.
FOI Page 67 of 881
FOI Document #12
Dari/Farsi Speaking CLO Counseling Session
Biweekly Report
10th to 20th Dec 2012/ Makassar South Sulawesi
Specific Locations of Interviews
Makassar Detention Centre
Hotels/Rooming Houses
o Wisma Permata Hotel:
o Wisma Favorite:
o ZN Guest House:
o Borong Life House:
o Wisma Dirgantara:
o Wisma Bonta tanga:
Note: there are 19 Afghans including children and women being accommodated in the Immigration
office in
Kanim. They are all self surrendered RAS.
Numbers/Demographics of IMs
During the reporting period there were a total of 297 RAS receiving IOM assistance in Makassar,
including 151 Afghans (130 male and 21 female), five Sri Lankan (five male), nine Iraqis (six male and
one female), 70 Iranians (39 male and 31 female), nine Vietnamese (eight male and one female), 22
Pakistani (20 male and one female), four Sudanese(four male), 15 from Myanmar (13 male and two
female), 20 Somalis (14 male and six female) and one Ethiopian (male) . There are a total of 86 RAS in
Makassar DC and 211 RAS in the community facility, under IOM care.
Number/Description of Interviewees
During the reporting period, CLO counseled inside DC approx 35 Afghan men, aged between 16 to 55
years; the counseling sessions took place in the common area of the DC and individual rooms where
RAS are residing. The counseling sessions were held for small group of one to three people in each
group. One-on-one sessions were also provided.
Approx 40 Afghan men and women living in the community under IOM care were counseled, the
counseling sessions were in a group of one to four RAS, each session was held in the common area of
their residence.
FOI Page 68 of 881
FOI Document #12
Approx 15 Iranian, age between17-50 were provided counseling, they were counseled in the common
area of their hotel, where they are being accommodated.
Topics Discussed
1.
Impact of Bridging visas
2.
Living conditions in Nauru and Manus
Summary of Comments by Topic/Theme
1
Almost all RAS who are living in Makassar are aware of the bridging visas and looking for
more details about it.Amended to s47E(d) only
FOI Page 69 of 881
FOI Document #12
2
Amended to s47E(d) only
How often are you in contact with family/friends in home country and/or Australia?
Most regularly contact their families/ friends, once a week or at least once each two weeks.
CLO’s Comments: Insight, Recommendations, Notes re changing perspectives, etc
The caseload is aware of the new policies of the government, s47E(d)
Patterns in Interviewee Access to Information
FOI Page 70 of 881
FOI Document #12
In the past few weeks the restriction on internet enable computer and mobile phone have been lifted.
RAS have internet enabled computers in their rooms, and can contact anyone in the world, including
Australia and their country of origin; there is no restriction of the usage of mobile phone and internet
inside DC.
They also have access to TV with foreign channels, and receive the Jakarta post and BBC News from
IOM staff.
The main sources of information among the IMs in DC are:
Word of mouth ( talking to each other and sharing information)
Calling family and friends all over the world
Contacting family and friends through internet (Skype, yahoo messenger, face book etc...)
Accessing some Indonesian newspapers, BBC Dari service stories printed and distributed by
a parallel IOM initiative.
News stories and other material provided by CLO
Most frequently accessed websites with limited access
o BBC Dari-Language service
o
www.facebook.com
o
www.yahoo.com
News papers
o BBC Dari news
o Jakarta post
TV
o Three TV sets with access to foreign channels (Pakistan TV, Afghan TV, and other
English news channels
Those who are living in community accommodation in Makassar, have access to all media materials,
they have mobile phones, internet enabled computer, TV with foreign news channels (eg Aljazeera),
and having contact with local people in the community.
There is no restriction on their movements in the city.
FOI Page 71 of 881
FOI Document #12
Tamil-Speaking CLO Counseling Session
Biweekly Report
14 Dec – 20 Dec / Medan, North Sumatra
Specific Locations of interviews
Belawan Detention Centre
Community Living Facility:
Wisma Keluarga
Numbers/Demographics of IMs
At the time of this report there are a total of 779 RAS receiving IOM support in Medan, including 255
Afghans, 248 Sri Lankans, two Indians, 10 Iraqis, 15 Iranians, 202 Myanmars, four Somalis, 18
Palestinians, 5 Pakistanis and four Bangladeshis.
There are 255 RAS in the Belawan detention centre and 524 RAS in community facilities under IOM
care which includes 131 female RAS and 648 male RAS.
Number/Description of Interviewees
CLO counseled 18 single male RAS aged 22 – 40 and three female RAS aged 24 - 38 at the detention
centre along with eight male RAS aged 32 – 50 at the community facility.
All sessions which lasted for about one and a half hours were held outside the clinic at the detention
centre and in the classroom at the community facility.
Topics Discussed
3. Bridging Visas
4. Conditions on Manus/Nauru
Summary of Comments by Topic/Theme (use direct quotes if suitable)
FOI Page 72 of 881
FOI Document #12
Amended to s47E(d) only
FOI Page 73 of 881
FOI Document #12
How often are you in contact with family/friends in home country and/or Australia?
The RAS at the community facility are in regular contact with their family/friends in Sri Lanka and/or
Australia whenever they wish to. The RAS at the detention centre are in contact with family/friends in
home country and/or Australia as and when it is possible.
CLO’s Comments: Insight, Recommendations, Notes re changing perspectives, etc
Amended to s47E(d) only
Patterns in Interviewee Access to Information
The only mainstream news available here on TV is in Bahasa Indonesia which is not widely
understood. Most of the RAS in community facilities read and watch news on the internet, such as
BBC, CNN, ABC for English language and Makkal TV, Sun TV, tamilnet.com, tamilwin.com,
lankasrinews.com, athirvu.com and manithan.com for Tamil language. Some of them have their own
laptops.
All the RAS in the community facilities have mobiles phones legitimately obtained. These people are
well informed on the situation in Sri Lanka and other countries such Australia, Canada, France,
Switzerland and Malaysia. Some of them have family and friends living abroad.
The RAS in the detention centre have “black” mobile phones and are able to keep in touch with their
families and relatives in Sri Lanka and other countries such as Australia and Canada. They are also in
touch with their friends in other countries and in the community facilities in Indonesia.
FOI Page 74 of 881
FOI Document #13
Tamil-Speaking CLO Counseling Session
Biweekly Report
7 – 16 January 2013
Pekanbaru, Tanjung Pinang & Medan
Pekanbaru, Tanjung Pinang & Medan
Specific Locations of Interviews
Pekanbaru Detention Centre, Riau
Tanjung Pinang Detention Centre, Kepuluan Riau
Belawan Detention Centre – Medan, North Sumatra
Community Living Facility:
Wisma Keluarga - Medan
YPAP 1 – Medan
Numbers/Demographics of IMs
In Pekanbaru IDC, at the time of this report there are a total of 164 RAS receiving IOM support,
including 58 Afghans, 41 Sri Lankans, 25 Iranians, 13 Iraqis, 22 Palestinians, four Pakistanis and one
Myanmar RAS.
In Tanjung Pinang IDC, at the time of this report there are a total of 330 RAS receiving IOM support,
including 170 Afghans, 69 Sri Lankans, 81 Myanmars, one Iraqi, five Palestinians, three Pakistanis and
one Syrian.
In Medan, at the time of this report there are a total of 789 RAS receiving IOM support, including
258 Afghans, 238 Sri Lankans, 10 Iraqis, 23 Iranians, 223 Myanmars, four Somalis, 18 Palestinians,
five Pakistanis and 10 Bangladeshis. There are 206 RAS in the Belawan detention centre and 583 RAS
in community facilities under IOM care which includes 126 female RAS and 663 male RAS.
Number/Description of Interviewees
In Pekanbaru, CLO counseled 31 male Sri Lankan RAS ages 18 – 57 and six female RAS aged 21 – 48.
All sessions which lasted for about two hours were held in the multipurpose room at the detention
centre.
In Tanjung Pinang, CLO counseled 55 male Sri Lankan RAS aged 18 – 53. All sessions which lasted for
about one to two hours were held at the main lobby at the detention centre.
In Medan, CLO counseled 10 single male Sri Lankan RAS aged 22 - 39 at the Belawan detention
centre along with nine female Sri Lankan RAS age 18 – 52 from five families at the community
facility. All sessions which lasted for about half hour to one hour were held in the interview room at
the detention centre and the RAS’ homes at community facility
Topics Discussed
1. Bridging Visas
FOI Page 75 of 881
FOI Document #13
2. Conditions at offshore facilities
3. More Sri Lankan asylum seekers opt to go home – 30 Dec 2012, News.com.au
Summary of Comments by Topic/Theme
1.
Bridging Visas
Amended to s47E(d) only
2.
Offshore Facilities Conditions
The RAS at the Pekanbaru and Tanjung Pinang detention centres claim to have little knowledge
about the current situation in Australia or issues regarding Nauru and Manus.Amended to
s47E(d) only
How often are you in contact with family/friends in home country and/or Australia?
The RAS at the community facility are in regular contact with their family/friends in Sri Lanka and/or
Australia whenever they wish to. The RAS at the detention centre are in contact with family/friends
in home country and/or Australia as and when it is possible.
CLO’s Comments: Insight, Recommendations, Notes re changing perspectives, etc
FOI Page 76 of 881
FOI Document #13
s47E(d)
Patterns in Interviewee Access to Information
The only mainstream news available in detention centres on TV is in Bahasa Indonesia which is not
widely understood. The RAS in the detention centre have “black” mobile phones and are able to
keep in touch with their families and relatives in Sri Lanka and other countries such as Australia and
Canada. They are also in touch with their friends in other countries and in the community facilities in
Indonesia.
Most of the RAS in community facilities read and watch news on the internet, such as BBC, CNN, ABC
for English language and Makkal TV, Sun TV, tamilnet.com, tamilwin.com, lankasrinews.com,
athirvu.com and manithan.com for Tamil language. Most of them have their own laptops.
All the RAS in the community facilities have mobiles phones legitimately obtained. These people are
well informed on the situation in Sri Lanka and other countries such Australia, Canada, France,
Switzerland and Malaysia. Some of them have family and friends living abroad.
FOI Page 77 of 881
FOI Document #13
Dari-Speaking CLO Counseling Session
Biweekly Report
05 - 18 January 2013
Bogor / Puncak
Bogor, West Java
Specific Locations of Interviews
Community Living Facility:
Kenanga 1
Cangkudu
Ubersam
Villa Lora
Esten Torpedo
Kenanga 11
Numbers/Demographics of IMs
In Bogor, at the time of this reporting, there are a total of 408 migrants receiving IOM support, including 137
Afghans, 53 Sri Lankans, 56 Iraqis, 108 Iranians, 2 Pakistanis, 33 Palestinians, 13 Myanmarese, 1 Algerian, 4
Syrians and 1 Ethiopian. There are a total 231 males and 177 females.
Number/Description of Interviewees
In Bogor, CLO counseled eight families consisting of 12 men aged 20 – 52 and women aged 18 –43, along with
14 single males from Afghanistan aged 18 – 45 and four single Iranian males aged 23 – 30. All sessions lasted
for about one to one and half hours.
Topics Discussed
4. The impact of bridging visas on people’s decision-making.
5. Nauru and Mannus conditions
Summary of Comments by Topic/Theme 1.
The impact of bridging visas on people’s decision-making.
There is not much to report as the caseload were already informed about the issuing of bridging visas.Amen
ded
to
s47E(
d)
only
FOI Page 78 of 881
FOI Document #13
Amended to s47E(d) only
How often are you in contact with family/friends in home country and/or Australia?
-
The RAS at the community facility are in regular contact with their family/friends in their home
country and Australia whenever they wish to.
CLO’s Comments: Insight, Recommendations, Notes re changing perspectives, etc Nil
Patterns in Interviewee Access to Information
The only mainstream (non-cable) news available in the community is in Bahasa Indonesia which is not widely
understood. Most of the RAS in community facilities read and watch news on the Internet, such as BBC, CNN,
ABC for English language Most of them have their own laptops. All RAS in the community facilities have
mobiles phones legitimately obtained. These people are well informed on the situation in Afghanistan, Iran
and Pakistan and other countries such Australia, Canada, France, Switzerland and Malaysia. Some of them
have family and friends living abroad.
FOI Page 79 of 881
FOI Document #13
Dari/Farsi Speaking CLO Counseling Session
Biweekly Report
7th-16th January, 2013
Manado + Makassar
MANADO (7th-11th January 2013)
Manado Detention Centre
Manado DC is located approximately 6km from IOM offices in Manado city (population 400 000). A
one way trip will take around 15 minutes. DC consists of two sections, administrative section and
accommodation area for RAS. The administrative section is being used by Immigration to manage
the center. In the administrative section, one room is being used by IOM medical team and social
worker. There are roughly 16 rooms for RAS to be accommodated, 8 on the ground floor and
another 8 on the second floor. The DC can accommodate around 100 people. There is also a
mosque, a church, one kitchen and two playgrounds for RAS to use. There is a small library which
contains around 50 Dari (Farsi) language books. There is a medical facility in DC run by IOM, which
provide medical treatment to RAS.
Numbers/Demographics of IMs
During the reporting period there were a total of 92 RAS receiving IOM assistance in Manado,
including 62 Afghans (57 male and 5 female), one Sri Lankan (one male), four Iranians (four male),
two Pakistani ( two male), 23 from Myanmar (23 male). There are a total of 92 RAS in Manado DC
under IOM care.
Number/Description of Interviewees
During the reporting period, CLO has counseled inside DC approximately 50 Afghan men, age
between 16 to 55 years; the counseling session took place in the common area of the DC and
individual room, where RAS are residing. The counseling sessions were held for small and medium
size groups of one to nine people in each group. One-on-one sessions were also provided. Four
Iranian, age between18-50 were also provided counseling, they were counseled inside DC in their
room.
Topics Discussed
1. Impact of Bridging Visas
2. Living conditions in Nauru and Manus
Summary of Comments by Topic/Theme
1. Impact of Bridging Visas
There is no restriction from the immigration staff for accessing media/ internet inside Manado DC,
almost everyone has a cell phone and there were around five internet enabled computers. All were
aware of the issue of bridging visa being issued to those who made it to Australia after the 13th of
August, 2012.
Amended to s47E(d) only
FOI Page 80 of 881
FOI Document #13
Amended to s47E(d) only
2. Manus & Nauru Living Conditions
The living conditions in Nauru and PNG are known to all of in the Centers.Amended to s47E(d) only
How often are you in contact with family/friends in home country and/or Australia?
- Most regularly contact their families/ friends, once a week or at least once each two weeks.
CLO’s Comments
The RAS in Manado were well aware of the policy change, Amended to s47E(d) only
MAKASSAR (14th-16th January 2013)
Numbers/Demographics of IMs
During the reporting period there were a total of 316 RAS receiving IOM assistance in Makassar,
including 161 Afghans (140 male and 21 female), five Sri Lankan (five male), nine Iraqis (six male and
three female), 70 Iranians (39 male and 31 female), nine Vietnamese (eight male and one female),
FOI Page 81 of 881
FOI Document #13
22 Pakistani ( 20 male and one female), four Sudanese (four male), 15 from Myanmar (13male and
two female), 20 Somalis (14 male and six female) and one Ethiopian (one male) . There are a total
of 85 RAS in Makassar DC and 222 RAS in the community facility, under IOM care.
Number/Description of Interviewees
During the reporting period, CLO has counseled inside DC approximately 30 Afghan men, aged
between 16 to 55 years; the counseling session took place in the common area of the DC and
individual room, where RAS are residing. The counseling sessions were held for small group of one to
three people in each group. One-on-one sessions were also provided.
Approximately 40 Afghan men and women living in communities under IOM care were counseled,
the counseling sessions were in a groups of between one and four RAS, each session was held in the
common area of their residence.
Approximately 10 Iranian, age between 17-50 were provided counseling, they were counseled in the
common area of their hotel, where they are being accommodated.
Topics Discussed
1 Impact of Bridging visas
2. living conditions in Nauru and Manus
Summary of Comments by Topic/Theme
1. Nothing new to report.
2. Nothing new to report.
Amended to
s47E(d) only
How often are you in contact with family/friends in home country and/or Australia?
- Most regularly contact their families/ friends, once a week or at least once each two weeks.
CLO’s Comments: Insight, Recommendations, Notes re changing perspectives, etc
Patterns in Interviewee Access to Information
There are four TV set in DC, they can access for foreign channel. As it was mentioned they have
internet enabled phone and some internet enabled computer inside DC.
Jakarta post and BBC news in Dari/Farsi are being distributed to them on regular basis.
The main sources of information among the IMs in DC are:
Word of mouth ( talking to each other and sharing information)
Calling family and friends all over the world
Contacting family and friends through internet (Skype, Yahoo Messenger, Facebook etc...)
Accessing some Indonesian newspapers, BBC Dari service stories printed and distributed by
a parallel IOM initiative.
Social media is being used very frequently in DC, such as Facebook and yahoo messenger.
News papers
o BBC Dari news
FOI Page 82 of 881
FOI Document #13
o Jakarta post
TV
o Four TV sets with access to foreign channels (mainly English channels and Al
Jazeera)
FOI Page 83 of 881
FOI Document #14
Tamil-Speaking CLO Counseling Session
Biweekly Report
30 July – 10 August / Medan, North Sumatra
Specific Locations of Interviews
Belawan Detention Centre
Community Living Facility:
Wisma Keluarga
YPAP 1
Numbers/Demographics of IMs
At the time of this report there are a total of 518 RAS receiving IOM support in Medan, including 175
Afghans, 164 Sri Lankans, 22 Iraqis, nine Iranians and 148 from Myanmar.
There are 67 RAS in Belawan detention centre and 451 RAS in community facilities under IOM care
which includes 69 female RAS and 449 male RAS.
Number/Description of Interviewees
CLO counseled five single male RAS aged 19 – 38 at the detention centre and three female RAS aged
32 – 47 and 17 male RAS aged 25– 51 at the community facilities.
All sessions which lasted for about one and a half hours were held outside the clinic at the detention
centre and community facility and at the RAS’ homes at the community facility.
Topics Discussed
1. Malaysian deal OK, UN agency tells MPs – 24 July 2012, The Australian
2. Australian rights body calls for release of detained asylum seekers – 27 July 2012, ABC Radio
Australia
3. Sri Lanka navy urges Australia to deport asylum seekers – 28 July 2012, Jakarta Globe
4. Australians split on immigration and policies on asylum seekers – 2 August 2012, Angus Reid
Public Opinion
Summary of Comments by Topic/Theme (use direct quotes if suitable.)
Amended to s47E(d) only
FOI Page 84 of 881
FOI Document #14
Amended to s47E(d) only
FOI Page 85 of 881
FOI Document #14
Amended to s47E(d) only
How often are you in contact with family/friends in home country and/or Australia?
The RAS at the community facility are in regular contact with their family/friends in Sri Lanka and/or
Australia.
The RAS at the detention centre are in contact with family/friends in home country and/or Australia
as and when it is possible.
CLO’s Comments: Insight, Recommendations, Notes re changing perspectives, etc
Amended to s47E(d) only
Patterns in Interviewee Access to Information
The only mainstream news available here on TV is in Bahasa Indonesia which is not widely
understood. Most of the RAS in community facilities read and watch news on the internet, such as
BBC, CNN, ABC for English language and Makkal TV, Sun TV, tamilnet.com, tamilwin.com,
lankasrinews.com, athirvu.com and manithan.com for Tamil language. Some of them have their own
laptops.
All the RAS in the community facilities have mobiles phones legitimately obtained. These people are
well informed on the situation in Sri Lanka and other countries such Australia, Canada, France,
Switzerland and Malaysia. Some of them have family and friends living abroad.
The RAS in the detention centre have “black” mobile phones and are able to keep in touch with their
families and relatives in Sri Lanka and other countries such as Australia and Canada. They are also in
touch with their friends in other countries and in the community facilities in Indonesia.
FOI Page 86 of 881
FOI Document #14
Dari-speaking CLO Counseling Session
BiWeekly Report
30 July – 10 August 2012 / Bogor
Specific Locations of Interviews
KENANGA I
CANGKUDU
KANANGA II
UBERSAM HOTEL
Numbers/Demographics of IMs
At the time of this reporting, there are a total of 463 migrants in Cisarua/Bogor, 271 of whom are
Dari/Farsi-speaking Afghans (154: 94 male and 60 female) and Iranians (117: 58 male and 59 female).
Currently there are seven other nationalities under IOM care in this area: Sri Lankan (81), Iraqis (64),
Pakistanis (two), Palestinian (28), Algerian (one), Myanmar (12) and Syrian (4).
Number/Description of Interviewees
During reporting period the CLO counseled a total of 51 Afghans and Iranians, and three Pakistanis
who were not registered with UNHCR between the ages of 15 and 60.
CLO also counseled 20 individuals who are not under any organization’s care, eight of whom came to
the IOM information Centre and the balance were counseled at their rented villas.
CLO counseled them in small groups of between two, five and eight people.
Topics Discussed
1. Sri Lanka Navy Urges Australia to Deport Asylum Seekers
2. Australian right body calls for release of detained asylum seekers.
3. Malaysia deal OK, UN agency tells MPs
4. Australian Splits on Immigration and Policies on Asylum Seekers
Summary of Comments by Topic/Theme
Amended to s47E(d) only
FOI Page 87 of 881
FOI Document #14
Amended to s47E(d) only
FOI Page 88 of 881
FOI Document #14
Amended to s47E(d) only
s
4
7
F
How often are you in contact with family/friends in home country and/or Australia?
Most of them have regular contact with their families mainly by mobile phone while others use
Skype.
CLO’s Comments: Insight, Recommendations, Notes re changing perspectives, etc
N/A
Patterns in Interviewee Access to Information
The Puncak caseload is generally well informed, reflecting wide access to information
because they are living in community- based accommodation and they are free to have access
to variety of sources of information.
They are reading the Farsi BBC News website as well a
s (http://www.aapa.org.au/) website
run by Afghan Australian Philanthropic Association in Australia. The Kabul press weblog is a
Farsi weblog run by Afghans and some time they put news and articles about the refugees
and Australian policies about the refugees.
news.com.au, newsnow.com.au, abc.net.au
Some of them read the Australian Immigration website and follow the news of Australian
policy on that website.
They also have mobile phones and are contacting their friends or family members when ever
they like.
The IOM information centre is a way to get information. They are coming to the information
centre almost every day. They have access to the CLO binder that contains translations of all
the news stories provided by ACBPS as well as printout of selected BBC news stories from a
parallel IOM project.
FOI Page 89 of 881
FOI Document #14
Dari & Farsi speaking CLO Counseling Session
Weekly Report
08/08/12-10/08/12, Medan, Indonesia
Homaira Mershedi
PM Note: new CLO arrived in Medan duty station on Aug 7 and was instructed to
disseminate only the two most recent news items.
Specific Locations of Interviews
Rudenim Belawan
Pelangi Hotel
Numbers/Demographics of IMs
At the time of this report there are a total of 518 RAS receiving IOM support in
Medan, including 175 Afghans, 164 Sri Lankans, 22 Iraqis, nine Iranians and 148
from Myanmar.
There are 67 RAS in Belawan detention centre and 451 RAS in community facilities
under IOM care which includes 69 female RAS and 449 male RAS.
Number/Description of Interviewees
CLO counseled 66 migrants at Rudenim Belawan and 14 at Pelangi Hotel, under
IOM care in the Reporting area.
Topics Discussed
Article 1: Australian rights body calls for release of detained asylum seekers
Dated: 27th July 2012
Article 2: Australians split on Immigration and Policies on asylum-seekers
Dated: 08th Aug 2012
Summary of Comments by Topic/Theme (use direct quotes if suitable.)
The RAS caseload did not seem to be aware of the above articles. There were mixed
points of view on both articles.
Amended to s47E(d) only
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FOI Document #14
Amended to s47E(d) only
Article 2:
The detainees were somewhat aware of the news (from above article) but not in
detail.
Amended to s47E(d) only
Amended to s47E(d) only
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FOI Document #14
Amended to s47E(d) only
CLO’s Comments: Insight, Recommendations, Notes re changing perspectives, etc
Patterns in Interviewee Access to Information
PM note: CLO’s first days with project so difficult to assess this at this time.
Facebook sites for asylum seekers, BBC, Hazara websites, friends and relatives both
in Australia and back home.
They believe the more credible and reliable news is from sources within Australia.
FOI Page 92 of 881
FOI Document #14
Dari/Farsi Speaking CLO Counseling Session
Biweekly Report
30 July-10 August 2012/ Makassar South sulawesi
Specific Locations of Interviews
Makassar Detention Centre
Hotels/Rooming Houses
Wisma Permata Hotel:
Mahkota Hotel:
Wisma Favorite:
ZN Guest House:
Borong Life House:
Numbers/Demographics of IMs
During the reporting period there were a total of 262 RAS receiving IOM assistance in Makassar,
including 97 Afghans (86 male and 11 female), five Sri Lankan (five male), 14 Iraqis (eight male and
six female), 49 Iranians (29 male and 20 female), three Pakistani (males), three Sudanese (males), 16
from Myanmar (nine male and seven female), 23 Somalis (15 male and eight female) and one
Ethiopian (male) .
There are a total of 125 RAS in Makassar DC and 137 RAS in the community facility, under IOM care.
Number/Description of Interviewees
During the reporting period, the CLO has counseled 40 Afghan men, aged between 16 to 55 years at
the IDC; the counseling sessions took place in the common area of the DC and in individual rooms,
where RAS are residing. The counseling sessions were held for small groups of one to three people.
One on one sessions were also conducted.
Approx 15 Afghan men and women living in communities under IOM care were counseled, in groups
of between one and four RAS. Each session was held in the common area of their residence.
Approx 20 Iranians, aged between17-50 were provided counseling in the common area of their hotel,
where they are being accommodated.
Topics Discussed
1.
Australian rights body calls for release of detained asylum seekers: Jakarta Globe July 28,
2012
2.
Sri Lanka navy urges Australia to deport asylum seekers: ABC Radio Australia July 27,
2012
3.
Polls Australia split on Immigration and Policies on Asylum- seekers
4.
Malaysia deal OK, UN agency tells MPs
Summary of Comments by Topic/Theme 1
FOI Page 93 of 881
FOI Document #14
Amended to s47E(d) only
FOI Page 94 of 881
FOI Document #14
Amended to s47E(d) only
How often are you in contact with family/friends in home country and/or Australia?
Most regularly contact their families/ friends, once a week or at least once each two weeks.
CLO’s Comments: Insight, Recommendations, Notes re changing perspectives, etc
Amended to s47E(d) only
Patterns in Interviewee Access to Information
PM Note: CLO advises new Access to Information protocols at Makassar IDC:
In Makassar DC more restrictive rules in terms of accessing internet and mobile phones have been
introduced. In the past all RAS were able to have a mobile phone, and could contact anyone in the
world, including Australia and their country of origin. They also had access to internet enabled
computers. Now their access to internet and mobile phones is limited to a short period every day, and
both computers and mobile phones are taken away by immigration officers after a limited period of
time.
They still have access to TV with foreign channels, and receive the Jakarta post and BBC News from
IOM staff.
The main sources of information among the IMs in DC are:
Word of mouth ( talking to each other and sharing information)
Calling family and friends all over the world(limited access)
Contacting family and friends through internet (Skype, yahoo messenger, face book etc...)
limited access.
Accessing some Indonesian newspapers, BBC Dari service stories printed and distributed by
a parallel IOM initiative.
News stories and other material provided by CLO
Most frequently accessed websites with limited access
o BBC Dari-Language service
o
www.facebook.com
o
www.yahoo.com
FOI Page 95 of 881
FOI Document #14
News papers
o BBC Dari news
o Jakarta post
TV
o Three TV sets with access to foreign channels (Pakistan TV, Afghan TV, and other
English news channels
Those who are living in community accommodation in Makassar, have access to all media materials,
they have mobile phones, internet enabled computer, TV with foreign news channels (eg Aljazeera),
and having contact with local people in the community.
There is no restriction on their movements in the city.
FOI Page 96 of 881
FOI Document #15
Consolidated CLO Reports
Bogor, Makassar and Medan
01 Oct - 12 Oct 2012
PM Note:
All CLOs were in their duty stations, Bogor/Puncak, Medan and Makassar during the reporting
period.
The first week of the next biweekly reporting period (due Oct 29) will see a Dari-speaking CLO travel
to Pekanbaru IDC in Riau province, and the Tamil-speaker traveling to Tanjung Pinang IDC, in
Kepuluan Riau province.
Focus of CLO Counseling during the reporting period:
Movement of Refugees and Asylum Seekers to Nauru/offshore processing
AVR from Christmas Island to Sri Lanka
Changes to Family Reunification Rules
1. BOGOR/PUNCAK
Specific Locations of Interviews
• KENANGA I
IOM’s information centre, its social workers and clinic are located in KENANGA I, a townhouse style
cluster of 6 houses and 15 rooms most of which are occupied by migrants; through from time to time
they are also rented to tourists.
• CANGKUDU
Cangkudu is a rooming house consisting of 27 rooms connected to Kenanga I.
There are 33 migrants: 10 Afghans, 17 Sri-Lankans, three Iraqis, one Ethiopian and two Iranians.
• KANANGA II
KANANGA II is a townhouse-style cluster of 4 houses and 29 rooms under IOM’s care.
There are 51 migrants: 11 Afghans, eight Sri-Lankan, 11 Iraqis, 16 Iranians and five Palestinians.
• UBERSAM HOTEL
Ubersam Hotel partly rented by IOM in which 107 migrants reside: 54 Afghans, 5 Sri- Lankans, 19
Iraqis, 22 Iranians, two Pakistanis and five Myanmar citizens.
• Church World Services Centre in Cipaun
Numbers/Demographics of IMs
At the time of this reporting, there are a total of 474 migrants in Cisarua/Bogor, 276 of whom are
Dari/Farsi and Pashto speaking Afghans (160: 97 male and 63 female), Pakistanis (two Male) and
Iranians (114: 54 male and 60 female).
Number/Description of Interviewees
During reporting period CLO counseled a total of 60 Afghans and Iranians migrants under IOM care,
and roughly 30 individuals who are not under any organization’s care.
CLO counseled them in small groups of between two and eight people.
Summary of Comments
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FOI Document #15
Movement to Nauru
• No significant new reaction to the launch of off shore processing.
• Amended to s47E(d) only
AVR from Christmas Island to Sri Lanka
• Nothing new to report.
• Amended to s47E(d) only
Family reunification
• Nothing new to report.
• Amended to s47E(d) only
CLO’s Comments: Insight, Recommendations, Notes re changing perspectives
Amended to s47E(d) only
Patterns in Interviewee Access to Information
• The Puncak caseload is generally well informed, reflecting wide access to information
because they are living in community- based accommodation and they are free to have access
to variety of sources of information.
• They are reading the Farsi BBC News website as well as
(http://www.aapa.org.au/) website
run by Afghan Australian Philanthropic Association in Australia. The Kabul press weblog is a
Farsi weblog run by Afghans and some time they put news and articles about the refugees
and Australian policies about the refugees.
• news.com.au, newsnow.com.au, abc.net.au
• Some of them read the Australian Immigration website and follow the news of Australian
policy on that website.
• They also have mobile phones and are contacting their friends or family members when ever
they like.
• The IOM information centre is a way to get information. They are coming to the information
centre almost every day. They have access to the CLO binder that contains translations of all
the news stories provided by ACBPS as well as printout of selected BBC news stories from a
parallel IOM project.
FOI Page 98 of 881
FOI Document #15
2. MAKASSAR
Specific Locations of Interviews
Makassar Immigration Detention Centre
Hotels and Rooming Houses
• Wisma Permata Hotel:
It is a hotel type accommodation, where 13 Afghans, four Sri Lankan, and one Iranian are
accommodated.
• Wisma Favorite:
It is hotel type accommodation, where four Afghans, seven Iranians, and two Pakistanis are being
accommodated.
• ZN Guest House:
This is a four story building consists of 30 rooms for 11 Afghans, 15 Iraqis and 40 Iranians.
• Borong Life House:
This is hotel type accommodation where 18 Afghans, three Iraqis, four Iranian, three Sudanese, 14
from Myanmar and nine from Somali are accommodated.
Numbers/Demographics of IMs
U
During the reporting period there were a total of 259 RAS receiving IOM assistance in Makassar,
including 104 Afghans (88 male and 16 female), four Sri Lankan (four male), 18 Iraqis (12 male and
six female), 56 Iranians (31 male and 25 female), 28 Vietnamese (25 male and three female), three
Pakistani ( three male), four Sudanese (four male), 21 from Myanmar (17 male and four female), 20
Somalis (14 male and six female) and one Ethiopian (male) .
There are a total of 91 RAS in Makassar DC and 168 RAS in the community, under IOM care.
Number/Description of Interviewees
U
During the reporting period, CLO counseled approx 30 Afghan men, age between 16 to 55 years
inside the IDC; the counseling sessions took place in the common area of the IDC and individual
rooms. The counseling sessions occurred on more than one occasion and were held for small group of
one to three people in each group. One to one sessions were also provided.
Approx 20 Afghan men and women living in communities under IOM care were counseled, in a
groups of one to four RAS. Each session was held in the common area of their residence. Approx 20
Iranian, age between17-50 were provided counseling in the common area of their hotel, where they
are being accommodated. In both instances, the counseling sessions were conducted on more than
one occasion
Summary of Comments
Movement to Nauru
U
• All IMs under IOM care are aware of offshore processing and the determination of the
Australian government to send boat arrivals to Nauru and PNG Manus Island. Amended to
Amended to s47E(d) only
s47E(d) only
FOI Page 99 of 881
FOI Document #15
2. Amended to s47E(d) only
AVR
• Nothing new to report.
• Amended to s47E(d) only
Family Reunification
• Nothing new to report.
• Amended to s47E(d) only
CLO’s Comments: Insight, Recommendations, Notes re changing perspectives
• The caseload is fully aware of the new procedures.
• s47E(d)
Patterns in Interviewee Access to Information
In Makassar DC more restrictive rules in terms of accessing internet and mobile phones have been
introduced, in the past all RAS were able to have a mobile phone, and could contact anyone in the
world, including Australia and their country of origin, they were also had access to internet enabled
computers, but now they are allowed to use their mobile phone and computer for limited amount of
FOI Page 100 of 881
FOI Document #15
time per day, they can not have access to their phones and computers, because the immigration keep
it away from them.
They still have access to TV with foreign channels, and receive the Jakarta post and BBC News from
IOM staff.
The main sources of information among the IMs in DC are:
• Word of mouth ( talking to each other and sharing information)
• Calling family and friends all over the world(limited access)
• Contacting family and friends through internet (Skype, yahoo messenger, face book etc...)
limited access.
• Accessing some Indonesian newspapers, BBC Dari service stories printed and distributed by
a parallel IOM initiative.
• News stories and other material provided by CLO
• Most frequently accessed websites with limited access
o
BBC Dari-Language service
o
www.facebook.com
o
www.yahoo.com
• News papers
o
BBC Dari news
o
Jakarta Post
• TV
o
Three TV sets with access to foreign channels (Pakistan TV, Afghan TV, and other
English news channels
Those who are living in community accommodation in Makassar, have access to all media materials,
they have mobile phones, internet enabled computer, TV with foreign news channels (eg Aljazeera),
and having contact with local people in the community.
There is no restriction on their movements in the city.
FOI Page 101 of 881
FOI Document #15
3. MEDAN
Specific Locations of Interviews
• Belawan Immigration Detention Centre
Community Living Facility:
• YPAP 1
Numbers/Demographics of IMs
At the time of this report there are a total of 655 RAS receiving IOM support in Medan, including 222
Afghans, 212 Sri Lankans, two Indians, 24 Iraqis, 10 Iranians, 11 Pakistanis, four Somalis and 170 from
Myanmar.
There are 160 RAS in Belawan detention centre, five in Polonia Immigration Office and 495 RAS in
community facilities under IOM care, including 106 female RAS and 549 male RAS.
Number/Description of Interviewees CLO counselled 117 Sri Lankans (103 men / 14 women) under IOM care in community facilities and
the IDC. Single male age 16-42, single women age 17-42.
Counselling place in the DC: 51 male; 11 female and the Community housing: 52 male; 3 female
Summary of Comments
Movements to Nauru
• The RAS are now well aware that Australia is serious about implementing off-shore
processing. Amended to s47E(d) only
AVR from Christmas Island to Sri Lanka
• Nothing new to report.
• Amended to s47E(d) only
FOI Page 102 of 881
FOI Document #15
Amended to s47E(d) only
Changes to Family Reunification
• Nothing new to report.
• Amended to s47E(d) only
CLO’s Comments: Insight, Recommendations, Notes re changing perspectives
Amended to s47E(d) only
FOI Page 103 of 881
FOI Document #16
Dari-speaking CLO Counseling Session
Report
Bogor/Puncak, West Java
9 – 16 November 2012
Specific Locations of Interviews
KENANGA I
IOM’s information centre, its social workers and clinic are located in KENANGA I, a townhouse style
cluster of 6 houses and 15 rooms most of which are occupied by migrants; through from time to time
they are also rented to tourists.
CANGKUDU
Cangkudu is a rooming house consisting of 27 rooms connected to Kenanga I.
There are 33 migrants: 10 Afghans, 17 Sri-Lankans, 3 Iraqis, 1 Eth and 2 Iranian.
KANANGA II
KANANGA II is a townhouse-style cluster of 4 houses and 29 rooms under IOM’s care.
There are 51 migrants: 11 Afghans, 8 Sri-Lankan, 11 Iraqis, 16 Iranians and 5 Palestinian.
UBERSAM HOTEL
Ubersam Hotel partly rented by IOM in which 107 migrants reside: 54 Afghans, 5 Sri- Lankans, 19
Iraqis, 22 Iranians, 2 Pakistanis and 5 Myanmarians.
CWS Centre in Cipaun
UNHCR use CWS twice a week for registering new asylum seekers. CWS office is always used by all
asylum seekers and their activities meeting UNHCR on Thursday s for counseling.
Numbers/Demographics of IMs
At the time of this reporting, there are a total of 441 migrants in Cisarua /Bogor, 269 of them are
Dari/Farsi and Pashto speaking Afghans (153: 92 male and 61 female), Pakistanis (2 Male) and
Iranians (114: 54 male and 60 female).
Currently there are seven nationalities under IOM care in this area: Afghan (270) Sri Lankan (56),
Iraqis (64), Palestinian (33), Algerian (one), Myanmar (13) and Syrian (four).
Number/Description of Interviewees
During reporting period CLO counseled a total of 26 RAS Afghans, Iranians and Pakistanis most of
them were registered with UNHCR. Twelve of them came to the IOM Information Centre. CLO
counseled them in small groups of between three and five people.
Topics Discussed
1.
Australia to take more refugees from priority regions
2.
First Iraqis and Iranian returned voluntarily
Amended to s47E(d) only
FOI Page 104 of 881
FOI Document #16
Amended to s47E(d) only
.
2. CLO also discussed first Iraqis and Iranian returned voluntarily among the RAS.Amended to
s47E(d) only
Patterns in Interviewee Access to Information
• The Puncak caseload is generally well informed, reflecting wide access to information
because they are living in community- based accommodation and they are free to have access
to variety of sources of information.
• They are reading the Farsi BBC News website as well as
(http://www.aapa.org.au/) website
run by Afghan Australian Philanthropic Association in Australia. The Kabul press weblog is a
Farsi weblog run by Afghans and some time they put news and articles about the refugees
and Australian policies about the refugees.
• news.com.au, newsnow.com.au, abc.net.au
• Some of them read the Australian Immigration website and follow the news of Australian
policy on that website.
FOI Page 105 of 881
FOI Document #16
• They also have mobile phones and are contacting their friends or family members when ever
they like.
• The IOM information centre is a way to get information. They are coming to the information
centre almost every day. They have access to the CLO binder that contains translations of all
the news stories provided by ACBPS as well as printout of selected BBC news stories from a
parallel IOM project.
FOI Page 106 of 881
FOI Document #17
Dari-Speaking CLO Counseling Session
Biweekly Report
Bogor/Puncak
15 Feb -1 March 2013
Specific Locations of Interviews
Bogor, West Java
Community Living Facility:
• Kenanga 1
• Cangkudu
• Ubersam
• Villa Lora
• Esten Torpedo
• Kenanga 11
Numbers/Demographics of IMs
In Bogor, at the time of this reporting, there are a total of 392 migrants receiving IOM
support, including 123 Afghans, 51 Sri Lankans, 56 Iraqis, 108 Iranians, two Pakistanis, 33
Palestinians, 13 Myanmarese, one Algerian, four Syrians and one Ethiopian. There are a
total 222 males and 170 females.
Number/Description of Interviewees
In Bogor, CLO counseled a total of 55 refugees and asylum seeker 12 families consisting of
15 male aged 19 – 65 and 10 females aged 18 –47, along with 20 single males from
Afghanistan aged 18 – 45 and 10 single Iranian males aged 23 – 30 at the community
facilities and out of the community. Al sessions which lasted for about one to one and half
hours were held in Kananga 1 and other places.
Topics Discussed
1. The impact of bridging visas on people’s decision-making.
2. Sentencing of s47F
Smuggler
3. Offshore processing centers Nauru and PNG
Summary of Comments by Topic/Theme
1.
The RAS have been aware of bridging visas for several months Amended to
s47E(d) only
FOI Page 107 of 881
FOI Document #17
Amended to s47E(d) only
FOI Page 108 of 881
FOI Document #17
Amended to s47E(d) only
CLO’s Comments: Insight, Recommendations, Notes re changing perspectives, etc
Amended to s47E(d) only
Patterns in Interviewee Access to Information
The only mainstream (non-cable) news available in the community is in Bahasa Indonesia
which is not widely understood. Most of the RAS in community facilities read and watch
news on the Internet, such as Free Satellite TVs, BBC, CNN, ABC for English language Most
of them have their own laptops.
All RAS in the community facilities have mobiles phones legitimately obtained. These people
are well informed on the situation in Afghanistan, Iran and Pakistan and other countries
such Australia, Canada, France, Switzerland and Malaysia. Some of them have family and
friends living abroad.
FOI Page 109 of 881
FOI Document #18
Dari/Farsi Speaking CLO Counseling Session
Biweekly Report
Bogor, West Java
June 3-7, 2013
Specific Locations of Interviews
• Bogor, West Java
Community Living Facility:
• Kenanga 1
• Ubersam
• Villa Lora
• Kenanga 2
Numbers/Demographics of IMs in Bogor
In Bogor, at the time of this reporting, there are a total of 298 migrants receiving IOM support,
contains of 97 Afghans, 42 Sri Lankans, 23 Iraqis, 84 Iranians, one Pakistani, 32 Palestinians, 13
Myanmar, one Algerian, four Syrians and one Ethiopian. There are a total 161 males and 137 females.
Number/Description of Interviewees in Bogor
In Bogor, CLO counseled a total of 21 refugees and asylum seekers from five families consisting of
five males aged 28 – 43 and seven females aged 22 – 45, along with nine single males from
Afghanistan and Iran aged 19 – 53 from the community facilities and out of the community.
All sessions which lasted for about one to one and half hours were held in Kananga I, Ubersam, Villa
Lora, Kenanga II and other places.
Topics Discussed
1. People smugglers sending more families to Australia
2. Families will be released on bridging visas
3. Unruly’ Foreigners Detained by South Jakarta Immigration Office - May 24, 2013, Jakarta
Globe
Summary of Comments by Topic/Theme
Amended to s47E(d) only
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FOI Document #18
Amended to s47E(d) only
CLO’s Comments: Insight, Recommendations, Notes re changing perspectives, etc
Amended to s47E(d) only
Patterns in Interviewee Access to Information
The only mainstream (non-cable) news available in the community is in Bahasa Indonesia which is
not widely understood.
Most of the RAS in community facilities read and watch news on the Internet, satellite TV, BBC,
CNN, ABC (Australia) for English language courses. Most of them have their own laptops.
All RAS in the community facilities have mobiles phones legitimately obtained. These people are well
informed on the situation in Afghanistan, Iran and Pakistan and other countries such Australia,
Canada, France, Switzerland and Malaysia. Some of them have family and friends living abroad.
FOI Page 111 of 881
FOI Document #18
Tamil-Speaking CLO Counseling Session
Biweekly Report
Bogor, West Java
May 27-30
Specific Locations of Interviews
Community Living Facility:
• Anggerek
• Kenanga 1
• Cangkudu
• Ubersam
• Villa Lora
• Esten Tajur
Numbers/Demographics of IMs
At the time of this report there are a total of 298 RAS receiving IOM support including 97 Afghans, 42
Sri Lankans, 23 Iraqis, 84 Iranians, 32 Palestinians, 13 Myanmars, four Syrians, one Pakistani, one
Algerian and one Ethiopian.
There are a total of 161 male RAS and 137 female RAS, all of whom live in the community facilities.
Number/Description of Interviewees
CLO counseled 23 Sri Lankans (11 men, 12 women) aged 24 – 65 at the community facility. One to
two hour sessions for two to four people were held in their accommodations.
Topics Discussed
1. ‘Unruly’ foreigners detained by South Jakarta immigration office – JakartaGlobe, May 24,
2013
2. Smugglers cram more women, kids on to boat – The Australian, 8 May 2013
3. Reintegration of failed asylum-seekers ‘challenging’ – The Australian, 19 April 2013
Summary of Comments by Topic/Theme
1. The RAS asked whether or not the foreigners who have been detained are under IOM care.
Amended to s47E(d) only
g
FOI Page 112 of 881
FOI Document #18
Amended to s47E(d) only
How often are you in contact with family/friends in home country and/or Australia?
FOI Page 113 of 881
FOI Document #18
- The RAS at the community facility are in regular contact with their family/friends in Sri
Lanka and/or Australia whenever they wish to.
CLO’s Comments: Insight, Recommendations, Notes re changing perspectives, etc
Amended to s47E(d) only
Patterns in Interviewee Access to Information
The only mainstream news available here on TV is in Bahasa Indonesia which is not widely
understood. Most of the RAS in community facilities read and watch news on the internet, such as
BBC, CNN, ABC for English language and Makkal TV, Sun TV, tamilnet.com, tamilwin.com,
lankasrinews.com, athirvu.com and manithan.com for Tamil language. Most of them have their own
laptops.
All the RAS in the community facilities have mobiles phones legitimately obtained. These people are
well informed on the situation in Sri Lanka and other countries such Australia, Canada, France,
Switzerland and Malaysia. Some of them have family and friends living abroad.
FOI Page 114 of 881
FOI Document #18
Dari/Farsi Speaking CLO Counseling Session
Biweekly Report
Makassar, South Sulawesi
June 3- 4, 2013
Specific Locations of Interviews
• IDC Makassar
• Community Housing:
- Borong Life Home
Numbers/Demographics of IMs
During the reporting period there were a total of 416 RAS receiving IOM assistance in Makassar,
including 229 Afghans, five Sri Lankan, 13 Iraqis, 82 Iranians, 17 Pakistani , six Sudanese, 60 from
Myanmar, four Somalis . There are a total of 42 RAS in Makassar DC and 374 RAS in the community
facilities and immigration office under IOM care. The figure consists of 289 males and 127 females.
Number/Description of Interviewees
During the reporting period around 25 Afghan and five Pakistani aged 17 to 55 were counseled inside
the IDC in Makassar. The counseling sessions took place in the common area of the DC and
individual room where RAS are residing. The counseling sessions were held in small groups of
between one to three people. One-on-one sessions were also provided.
Approximately 30 Afghans men and women living in communities under IOM care were counseled,
the counseling sessions were in groups of one to four RAS, each session was held in the common area
of their residence. Four Iranian aged 17 to 50 were counseled in the common area of their hotel, where
they are being accommodated.
Topics Discussed
4. ‘Unruly’ Foreigners Detained by South Jakarta Immigration Office
5. Up-coming federal election in Australia
Summary of Comments by Topic/Theme
Amended to s47E(d) only
2. As it was reported in the past, the issue of the upcoming federal election in Australian is an
interesting issue for all RAS because of the consequences if the opposition wins in this election.
Amended to s47E(d) only
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FOI Document #18
Amended to
s47E(d) only
How often are you in contact with family/friends in home country and/or Australia?
- Most RAS regularly contact their families/ friends, once a week or at least once every two
weeks.
CLO’s Comments: Insight, Recommendations, Notes re changing perspectives, etc.
Amended to s47E(d) only
Patterns in Interviewee Access to Information
Makassar IDC has restrictive rules in terms of accessing internet and mobile phones. They are only
allowed to use their mobile phone and computer for limited amount of time per day.
They still have access to TV with foreign channels, and receive the Jakarta Post and BBC News from
IOM staff.
The main sources of information among the IMs in DC are:
• Word of mouth (talking to each other and sharing information)
• Calling family and friends all over the world (limited access)
• Contacting family and friends through internet (Skype, Yahoo Messenger, Facebook etc...)
limited access.
• Accessing some Indonesian newspapers, BBC Dari service stories printed and distributed by
a parallel IOM initiative.
• News stories and other material provided by CLO
• Most frequently accessed websites with limited access
o
BBC Dari-Language service
o
www.facebook.com
o
www.yahoo.com
• News papers
o
BBC Dari news
o
Jakarta post
• TV
o
There are three TV sets with access to foreign channels (Pakistan TV, Afghan TV, and
other English news channels)
Those who are living in community accommodation in Makassar, have access to all media materials,
they have mobile phones, internet enabled computer, TV with foreign news channels (such as Al
Jazeera), and having contact with local people in the community.
There is no restriction on their movements in the city.
FOI Page 116 of 881
FOI Document #18
Dari/Farsi Speaking CLO Counseling Session
Biweekly Report
Manado, North Sulawesi
May 27-31, 2013
Specific Locations of Interviews
• IDC Manado
Manado DC is located approximately six km from IOM office in Manado city (population: 400 000).
DC consists of two sections, administrative section and accommodation area for RAS. The
administrative section is being used by Immigration to manage the center; in the administrative
section, one room is being used by the IOM medical team and social worker. There are roughly 16
rooms for RAS, eight on the ground floor and another eight on the second floor. The DC can
accommodate around 100 people. There is also a mosque, a church, one kitchen and two playgrounds
for RAS to use. There is a small library that contains around 100 books; they are in Dari (Farsi)
language. There is a medical facility in DC run by IOM, which provides medical treatment to RAS.
Numbers/Demographics of IMs
During the reporting period there were a total of 123 RAS receiving IOM assistance in Manado,
including 54 Afghans, one Sri Lankan, three Iranians, two Pakistani and 63 from Myanmar. There are
a total of 123 RAS in Manado DC: 118 male and five female.
There is no community housing in Manado.
Number/Description of Interviewees
During the reporting period around 40 Afghan, one Iranian, one Pakistani and approximately 40 RAS
from Myanmar were counseled inside DC in Manado. The counseling session took place in the
common area of the DC and individual room where RAS are residing. The counseling sessions were
held in groups of three to ten people in each group. One-on-one sessions were also provided.
Topics Discussed
6. Issuance of Bridging visa for boat arrivals
7. Mainland excision laws pass parliament, 16 May, 2013
8. Upcoming federal election in Australia
Summary of Comments by Topic/Theme
Amended to s47E(d) only
FOI Page 117 of 881
FOI Document #18
Amended to s47E(d) only
2. Most RAS knew about the new law of excision of mainland Australia from migration zones. Am
en
de
d
to
s4
7E
(d)
onl
y
t.
3. The issue of the upcoming federal election in Australian was a very interesting topic for RAS. They
were well aware of the election in Australia. Amended to s47E(d) only
How often are you in contact with family/friends in home country and/or Australia?
- Most RAS regularly contact their families/ friends, once a week or at least once every two
weeks.
CLO’s Comments: Insight, Recommendations, Notes re changing perspectives, etc.
Amended to s47E(d) only
FOI Page 118 of 881
FOI Document #18
Patterns in Interviewee Access to Information
There are four TV sets in the IDC, and they can access some foreign channels. There are also internet
enabled phones and computers.
The Jakarta Post and BBC news in Dari/Farsi are being distributed to them on regular basis.
The main sources of information among the IMs in DC are:
• Word of mouth (talking to each other and sharing information)
• Calling family and friends all over the world
• Contacting family and friends through internet/social media (Skype, Yahoo Messenger,
Facebook etc...).
• Accessing some Indonesian newspapers, BBC Dari service stories printed and distributed by
a parallel IOM initiative.
• News papers (BBC Dari news, Jakarta post)
• TV (Four TV sets with access to foreign channels (English channels & Al Jazeera)
FOI Page 119 of 881
FOI Document #18
Dari/Farsi Speaking CLO Counseling Session
Biweekly Report
Medan, North Sumatra
June 3-7, 2013
Specific Locations of Interviews
1. IDC Belawan, Medan
Numbers/Demographics
At the time of this report there are a total of 946 RAS receiving IOM support including 323 Afghans,
217 Sri Lankans, 25 Iraqis, 71 Iranians, 240 Myanmars, four Somalis, 42 Palestinians, 16 Pakistanis, six
Bangladeshis, one Kuwaiti and one Syrian. There are 147 RAS in the Belawan Detention Centre and
799 RAS in community facilities under IOM care which includes 749 male RAS and 197 female RAS
(including 25 minors living in the community).
Number/Description of Interviewees
During the reporting period, CLO has counseled inside the Belawan Immigration Detention Center.
Eight Afghans, 10 Iranians, aged between 18 to 50 years old. The counseling session took place in the
IOM interview room of the Detention Center and the corridor leading to the IDC accommodation
rooms. The counseling sessions were held in small group of around one to ten people per group. One-
on-one sessions were also provided. The CLO also counseled a small number of unaccompanied
minors.
Topic Discussed
1. People going to Australia by boat
2. Australian Federal Election on September 2013
Summary of Comments by Topic/Theme
1. People going to Australia by Boat
Amended to s47E(d) only
FOI Page 120 of 881
FOI Document #18
Amended to s47E(d) only
2. Australia’s Federal Election
Amended to s47E(d) only
Specific Questions
N/A
CLO’s Comments: Insight, Recommendations, Notes re changing perspectives, etc.
Amended to s47E(d) only
Patterns in Interviewee Access to Information
FOI Page 121 of 881
FOI Document #18
RAS in the Belawan Immigration Detention Center have no access to the Internet, telephone,
International news service on TVs. They can only watch movies or local TV channels. They receive
limited English newspaper and limited newspapers in their own language.
There are a limited amount of “black” mobile phones used by RAS. This is how they talk to their
family and friends to get information from Afghanistan, Pakistan, Indonesia and Australia.
The main sources of information among the RAS in Detention Center are:
- Word of mouth talking to each other and sharing information
- Talking to IOM officers and medical staff
- News stories and New articles from BBC in their own language provided by IOM Officers
and CLO
- The Jakarta Globe Newspaper once a week
Those who are living in community accommodation in Medan have access to all media materials,
they have mobile phones, internet enabled computer, TV and have contacts with local people in the
community. There is no restriction with their movement in the city
FOI Page 122 of 881
FOI Document #18
Tamil-Speaking CLO Counseling Session
Biweekly Report
Medan, North Sumatra
June 3-4, 2013
Specific Locations of Interviews
Community Living Facility:
• YPAP 1 - Medan
Numbers/Demographics of IMs
At the time of this report there are a total of 946 RAS receiving IOM support including 323 Afghans,
217 Sri Lankans, 25 Iraqis, 71 Iranians, 240 Myanmars, four Somalis, 42 Palestinians, 16 Pakistanis, six
Bangladeshis, one Kuwaiti and one Syrian. There are 147 RAS in the Belawan Detention Centre and
799 RAS in community facilities under IOM care which includes 749 male RAS and 197 female RAS.
Number/Description of Interviewees
CLO counseled eight Sri Lankans (three men, five women) aged 18 – 52 at the community facility.
One hour to 90-min sessions were held in their accommodations.
Topics Discussed
4. ‘Unruly’ foreigners detained by South Jakarta immigration office – JakartaGlobe, May 24,
2013
Summary of Comments by Topic/Theme (use direct quotes if suitable)
Amended to s47E(d) only
FOI Page 123 of 881
FOI Document #18
- Amended to s47E(d) only
How often are you in contact with family/friends in home country and/or Australia?
- The RAS at the community facility are in regular contact with their family/friends in Sri
Lanka and/or Australia whenever they wish to.
CLO’s Comments: Insight, Recommendations, Notes re changing perspectives, etc
Amended to s47E(d) only
Patterns in Interviewee Access to Information
The only mainstream news available here on TV is in Bahasa Indonesia which is not widely
understood. Most of the RAS in community facilities read and watch news on the internet, such as
BBC, CNN, ABC for English language and Makkal TV, Sun TV, tamilnet.com, tamilwin.com,
lankasrinews.com, athirvu.com and manithan.com for Tamil language. Most of them have their own
laptops. The most trusted websites to obtain news about Sri Lanka are from tamilnet.com,
tamilwin.com.
All the RAS in the community facilities have mobiles phones legitimately obtained. These people are
well informed on the situation in Sri Lanka and other countries such Australia, Canada, France,
Switzerland and Malaysia. Some of them have family and friends living abroad.
FOI Page 124 of 881
FOI Document #18
Dari/Farsi Speaking CLO Counseling Session
Biweekly Report
Surabaya, East Java
27-30 May, 2013
Specific Locations of Interviews
• Surabaya Immigration Detention Centre, East Java
• Surabaya Community Housing
– Puspo Argo Accommodation
Numbers/Demographics of IMs
In Surabaya, at the time of this reporting, there are a total of 271 migrants receiving IOM support,
including 149 Afghans, 28 Sri Lankans, two Iraqis, 18 Iranians, four Pakistanis, 60 Myanmar, nine
Bangladeshis and one Sudanese. There are a total 259 males and 12 females.
Number/Description of Interviewees
Around 30 Afghans aged 20 – 45 have been counseled in the DC. The counseling sessions took place
in the yard of the DC. Around 60 Afghans aged 19 – 55 have been counseled in Puspo Argo, where
the RAS are residing.
Topics Discussed
9. People smugglers sending more families to Australia
10. Families will be released on bridging visas
11. Unruly’ Foreigners Detained by South Jakarta Immigration Office - May 24, 2013. Jakarta
Globe
Summary of Comments by Topic/Theme 1. The CLO met refugees and asylum seekers one-on-one and in groups of between 4 and 10 people.
Amended to s47E(d) only
RAS in community housing have access
to internet, phone and news.
Amended to s47E(d) only
FOI Page 125 of 881
FOI Document #18
Amended to s47E(d) only
How often are you in contact with family/friends in home country and/or Australia?
- The RAS at the community facility are in regular contact with their family/friends in their
home country and Australia whenever they wish to.Amended to s47E(d) only
CLO’s Comments: Insight, Recommendations, Notes re changing perspectives, etc.
s47E(d)
FOI Page 126 of 881
FOI Document #18
Pattern in interviewee in Access to Information
Surabaya detention RAS have no access to any kind of information.
The only mainstream (non-cable) news available in the community is in Bahasa Indonesia; which is
not widely understood. Some of the RAS in community facilities read and watch news on the
Internet, such as BBC, CNN, ABC for English language and Hazara Asylum Seekers site. All RAS in
the community facilities have mobiles phones legitimately obtained. These people are well informed
on the situation in Afghanistan, Iran and Pakistan and other countries such Australia, Canada,
France, Switzerland and Malaysia. Some of them have family and friends living abroad.
FOI Page 127 of 881
FOI Document #18
Dari/Farsi Speaking CLO Counseling Session
Biweekly Report
Tanjung Pinang, Sumatra
May 27 – 30, 2013
Specific Locations of Interviews
• Tanjung Pinang IDC
Numbers/Demographics
At the time of this report there are a total of 252 RAS receiving IOM support in Tanjung Penang IDC
including 78 Afghans, 72 Sri Lankans, 84 Myanmar, one Palestinian, three Pakistanis, and 14
Bangladeshis. There are 12 female RAS and 240 male RAS, including six UAMs.
Number/Description of Interviewees
During the reporting period, CLO has counseled inside Tanjung Pinang Immigration Detention
Center approximately 70 Afghans, aged between 17 to 50 years old. The counseling session took place
in the IDC library. The counseling sessions were held in groups of around ten to fifteen people per
group. One-on-one sessions were also provided.
There is no Community Facilities in Tanjung Pinanag.
Topic Discussed
3. People going to Australia by boat
4. Australian Federal Election on September 2013
Summary of Comments by Topic/Theme
1. People going to Australia by Boat
Amended to s47E(d) only
FOI Page 128 of 881
FOI Document #18
Amended to s47E(d) only
2. Australia’s Federal Election:
When talking about the Australia’s Federal election most of the RAS are aware about the election date
and the possibility that the opposition party will win. Amended to s47E(d) only
CLO’s Comments: Insight, Recommendations, Notes re changing perspectives, etc.
Amended to s47E(d) only
FOI Page 129 of 881
FOI Document #18
Patterns in Interviewee Access to Information
RAS in the Tanjung Pinang Immigration Detention Center have no access to the Internet, or
International news service on TVs. They can only watch movies or local TV channels. They receive
limited English newspaper and limited newspapers in their own language.
There are a limited number of “black” mobile phones available. This is how they talk to their family
and friends to get information from Afghanistan, Pakistan, Indonesia and Australia.
The main sources of information among the RAS in Detention Center are:
- Word of mouth talking to each other and sharing information
- Talking to IOM officers and medical staff
- News stories and New articles from BBC in their own language provided by IOM Officers
- The Jakarta Globe and Jakarta Post Newspaper once a week
FOI Page 130 of 881
FOI Document #19
Dari/Farsi-Speaking CLO Counseling Session
Biweekly Report
Makassar South Sulawesi
15 Feb to 1 March 2013
Numbers/Demographics of IMs
During the reporting period there were a total of 346 (317 in Makassar and 29 in Kendari)
RAS receiving IOM assistance. There are 173 Afghans (145 male and 28 female), five Sri
Lankan (five male), 12 Iraqis (eight male and four female), 66 Iranians (39 male and 27
female), three Vietnamese (two male and one female), 18 Pakistani (17 male and one
female), six Sudanese (six male), 36 from Myanmar (27 male and nine female), 13 Somalis
(seven male and six female) and one Ethiopian (one male) and 13 from Bangladesh (13
male). There are a total of 82 RAS in Makassar DC, 235 RAS in the community facilities in
Makassar and 29 asylum seekers in Kendari under IOM care.
Number/Description of Interviewees
During the reporting period, CLO counseled inside the IDC approximately 45 Afghan, seven
Pakistanis and one Iranian national, aged between 16 to 55 years; the counseling sessions
took place in the common area of the DC and individual room, where RAS are residing. The
counseling sessions were held for small group of around one to five people in each group.
One-on-one sessions were also provided.
Approximately 50 Afghan men and women living in communities under IOM care were
counseled; the counseling sessions were in groups of between one to five RAS, each session
was held in the common area of their residence.
Approximately 10 Iranian and two Pakistanis age between 17-50 were counseled in the
common area of their hotel, where they are being accommodated.
Topics Discussed
1.
Afghan linked to s47F jailed over fatal boat trip
2.
Hunger strikes don’t change anything : PM
3.
UN report on Manus Island, Papua New Guinea
Summary of Comments by Topic Topic 1.
Amended to s47E(d) only
FOI Page 131 of 881
FOI Document #19
Amended to s47E(d) only
Topic 2
Almost all RAS were aware of the issue of the hunger strikes by asylum seekers in the
offshore processing center in Nauru. Amended to s47E(d) only
.
FOI Page 132 of 881
FOI Document #19
Amended to
s47E(d) only
How often are you in contact with family/friends in home country and/or Australia?
- Most regularly contact their families/ friends, once a week or at least once each two
weeks.
CLO’s Comments: Insight, Recommendations, Notes re changing perspectives, etc
Amended to s47E(d) only
There is still interest about the outcome of the federal election, the prospect of changing
governments and policies. s47E(d)
Patterns in Interviewee Access to Information
In the past few weeks the restrictions on internet enable computer and mobile phone usage
in DC have been lifted. RAS have internet enabled computers in their rooms, and can
contact anyone in the world, including Australia and their country of origin; there is no
restriction of the usage of mobile phone and internet inside DC.
They also have access to TV with foreign channels, and receive the Jakarta post and BBC
News from IOM staff.
The main sources of information among the IMs in DC are:
Word of mouth ( talking to each other and sharing information)
Calling family and friends all over the world
Contacting family and friends through internet (Skype, Yahoo Messenger, Facebook
etc...) Accessing some Indonesian newspapers, BBC Dari service stories printed and
distributed by a parallel IOM initiative.
News stories and other material provided by CLO
Most frequently accessed websites with limited access
o BBC Dari-Language service
o
www.facebook.com
o
www.yahoo.com
o Hazara asylum seekers
FOI Page 133 of 881
FOI Document #19
News papers
o BBC Dari news
o Jakarta post
TV
o Three TV sets with access to foreign channels (Pakistan TV, Afghan TV, and
other English news channels
Those who are living in community accommodation in Makassar, have access to all media
materials, they have mobile phones, internet enabled computer, TV with foreign news
channels (e.g. Al Jazeera), and having contact with local people in the community.
There is no restriction on their movements in the city.
FOI Page 134 of 881
FOI Document #19
Tamil-Speaking CLO Counseling Session
Biweekly Report
Medan, North Sumatra
15 Feb – 1 March
Specific Locations of interviews
Belawan Detention Centre
Community Living Facility:
YPAP1
Wisma Keluarga
Numbers/Demographics of IMs At the time of this report there are a total of 929 RAS receiving IOM support in Medan,
including 293 Afghans, 273 Sri Lankans, two Indians, 28 Iraqis, 24 Iranians, 255 Myanmars,
four Somalis, 34 Palestinians, 12 Pakistanis, two Bangladeshis, one Kuwaiti and one Syrian.
There are 230 RAS in the Belawan Detention Centre and 699 RAS in community facilities
under IOM care which includes 153 female RAS and 776 male RAS.
Number/Description of Interviewees
CLO counseled 12 single male RAS aged 28 – 39 and three female RAS aged 19 - 40 at the
Detention Centre along with 18 male RAS aged 28 – 52 and five female RAS aged 27 – 47 at
the community facility.
All sessions which lasted for about one to one and a half hours were held outside the clinic
at the Detention Centre and in the classroom and the RAS homes at the community facility.
Topics Discussed
1. Australian Federal Election Announcement
2. Poll sparks asylum seekers rush – 1 Feb 2013, The West Australian
3. Blow to asylum battle as intelligence links Sri Lankan official to smugglers – 1 Feb
2013, The Australian
4. Navy would have role in turning asylum boats around: Morrison – 4 Feb 2013, The
Age
Summary of Comments by Topic
Amended to s47E(d) only
FOI Page 135 of 881
FOI Document #19
Amended to s47E(d) only
FOI Page 136 of 881
FOI Document #19
Amended to s47E(d) only
How often are you in contact with family/friends in home country and/or Australia?
- The RAS living in the community are in regular contact with their family/friends in Sri
Lanka and/or Australia anytime they wish.
- The RAS at the Detention Centre are in contact with family/friends in home country
and/or Australia on a limited basis.
CLO’s Comments
Amended to s47E(d) only
Patterns in Interviewee Access to Information
The only mainstream news available here on TV is in Bahasa Indonesia which is not widely
understood. Most of the RAS in community facilities read and watch news on the internet,
such as BBC, CNN, ABC for English language and Makkal TV, Sun TV, tamilnet.com,
tamilwin.com, lankasrinews.com, athirvu.com and manithan.com for Tamil language. Some
of them have their own laptops.
All the RAS in the community facilities have mobiles phones legitimately obtained. These
people are well informed on the situation in Sri Lanka and other countries such Australia,
Canada, France, Switzerland and Malaysia. Some of them have family and friends living
abroad.
FOI Page 137 of 881
FOI Document #19
The RAS in the detention centre have “black” mobile phones and are able to keep in touch
with their families and relatives in Sri Lanka and other countries such as Australia and
Canada. They are also in touch with their friends in other countries and in the community
facilities in Indonesia.
FOI Page 138 of 881
FOI Document #20
Dari/Farsi Speaking CLO Counseling Session
Biweekly Report
Makassar South Sulawesi
28thJan to 1st Feb 2013
PM Note: CLO returned from home leave on Jan 27.
Numbers/Demographics of IMs
During the reporting period there were a total of 336 RAS receiving IOM assistance in Makassar and
one family of five in Kendari, including 180 Afghans (152 male and 28 female), five Sri Lankan (five
male), 12 Iraqis (eight male and four female), 66 Iranians (39 male and 27 female), five Vietnamese
(three male and two female), 24 Pakistanis ( 22 male and two female), four Sudanese (four male), 20
from Myanmar (11 male and nine female), 19 Somalis (13 male and six female) and one Ethiopian
male .
There are a total of 97 RAS in Makassar DC and 234 RAS in the community facilities in Makassar and
the family of five in Kendari under IOM care.
Number/Description of Interviewees
During the reporting period, CLO counseled approximately 45 Afghan, 10 Pakistanis and one Iranian,
age between 16 to 55 years in the IDC.
The counseling sessions took place in the common area of the DC and individual rooms where RAS
are residing. The counseling sessions were held for small groups of one to three people. One-on-one
sessions were also provided.
Approximately 50 Afghan men and women living in communities under IOM care were also
counseled. The counseling sessions were in groups of between one and four RAS, and each session
was held in the common area of their residence.
Approximately 10 Iranian and two Pakistanis age between17-50 were counseled in the common area
of their hotel, where they are being accommodated.
Topics Discussed
1.
Impact of Bridging visas
2.
Living conditions in Nauru and Manus/ The announcement of the election date
3.
Election announcement
Summary of Comments by Topic/Theme 1
The reactions to this topic have been gathered in the past reports,Amended most remain
interested in new policies and decisions that will affect their cases,
to s47E(d)
Amended to s47E(d) only
only
Amended to s47E(d) only
FOI Page 139 of 881
FOI Document #20
Amended to s47E(d) only
2
RAS are aware of the conditions in the processing centers Amended to s47E(d) only
Amended to s47E(d) only
4.
Elections
Some RAS raised the issue of the election in Australia even before the announcement was made by
the government: it is very important issue for many of the RAS. The news that an election date has
been set became the most interesting issue for almost all of them towards the end of the reporting
period. Amended to s47E(d) only
.
Amended to s47E(d) only
How often are you in contact with family/friends in home country and/or Australia?
-
Most regularly contact their families/friends, once a week or at least every two weeks.
CLO’s Comments: Insight, Recommendations, Notes re changing perspectives, etc
Almost all RAS are aware of the new policy of issuing bridging visa to new arrivals in Australia.
FOI Page 140 of 881
FOI Document #20
s47E(d)
Patterns in Interviewee Access to Information
In the past few weeks the restrictions on Internet enable computer and mobile phone usage in DC
have been lifted. RAS have Internet enabled computers in their rooms, and can contact anyone in the
world, including Australia and their country of origin; there is no restriction of the usage of mobile
phone and Internet inside DC.
They also have access to TV with foreign channels, and receive the Jakarta post and BBC News from
IOM staff.
The main sources of information among the IMs in DC are:
Word of mouth ( talking to each other and sharing information)
Calling family and friends all over the world
Contacting family and friends through Internet (Skype, Yahoo messenger, Facebook etc...)
Accessing some Indonesian newspapers, BBC Dari service stories printed and distributed by
a parallel IOM initiative.
News stories and other material provided by CLO
Most frequently accessed websites with limited access
o BBC Dari-Language service
o
www.facebook.com
o
www.yahoo.com
News papers
o BBC Dari news
o Jakarta post
TV
o Three TV sets with access to foreign channels (Pakistan TV, Afghan TV, and other
English news channels
Those who are living in community accommodation in Makassar, have access to all media materials,
they have mobile phones, Internet enabled computer, TV with foreign news channels (e.g. Al Jazeera),
and having contact with local people in the community.
There is no restriction on their movements in the city.
FOI Page 141 of 881
FOI Document #20
Daril-Speaking CLO Counseling Session
Biweekly Report
18-31 January 2013
Bogor / Puncak
Specific Locations of Interviews
Bogor, West Java
Community Living Facility:
Kenanga 1
Cangkudu
Ubersam
Villa Lora
Esten Torpedo
Kenanga 11
Numbers/Demographics of IMs
In Bogor, at the time of this reporting, there are a total of 400 migrants receiving IOM support,
including 130 Afghans, 52 Sri Lankans, 56 Iraqis, 108 Iranians, two Pakistanis, 33 Palestinians, 13
Myanmarese, one Algerian, four Syrians and one Ethiopian. There are a total 226 males and 174
females.
Number/Description of Interviewees
In Bogor, CLO counseled a total of 59 refugees and asylum seeker 10 families consisting of 14 males
aged 19 – 59 and 15 females aged 18 –47, along with 30 single males from Afghanistan aged 18 – 55
and eight single Iranian males aged 23 – 30 in the community facilities and out of the community.
All sessions lasted for about one to one and half hours.
Topics Discussed
1. The impact of bridging visas on people’s decision-making.
2. Nauru/Manus conditions
Summary of Comments by Topic/Theme
1.
The refugees and asylum seekers were already informed about the issuing of bridging
visas and many are unwilling to discuss it further.
Amended to s47E(d) only
FOI Page 142 of 881
FOI Document #20
2.
Discussions with IOM caseload regarding conditions in Nauru and PNG produced much the
same reaction as in the past. Amended to s47E(d) only
How often are you in contact with family/friends in home country and/or Australia?
The RAS at the community facility are in regular contact with their family/friends in their home
country and Australia whenever they wish.
CLO’s Comments: Insight, Recommendations, Notes re changing perspectives, etc
Amended to s47E(d) only
.
Awareness about the announcement of the election is not widespread yet and most of those who had
heard about it were not prepared to comment. Amended to s47E(d) only
Patterns in Interviewee Access to Information
The only mainstream (non-cable) news available in the community is in Bahasa Indonesia which is
not widely understood.
Most of the RAS in community facilities read and watch news on the Internet, such as BBC, CNN,
ABC for English language Most of them have their own laptops.
All RAS in the community facilities have mobiles phones legitimately obtained. These people are well
informed on the situation in Afghanistan, Iran and Pakistan and other countries such Australia,
Canada, France, Switzerland and Malaysia. Some of them have family and friends living abroad.
FOI Page 143 of 881
FOI Document #21
Tamil-Speaking CLO Counseling Session
Biweekly Report
25 – 29 June / Medan, North Sumatra
PM Note:
CLO returned to the Medan duty station on Sunday, June 24 and began counseling sessions in the
community the following day.
Specific Locations of Interviews
Community Living Facility:
YPAP1
Top In
Numbers/Demographics of IMs
At the time of this report there are a total of 571 RAS receiving IOM support in Medan, including 221
Afghans, 166 Sri Lankans, 23 Iraqis, nine Iranians and 152 from Myanmar.
There are 84 RAS in the Belawan detention centre and 487 RAS in community facilities under IOM
care.
Number/Description of Interviewees
CLO counseled three female Sri Lankan RAS aged 22 - 64 and eight male Sri Lankan RAS aged 22– 35
at the community facilities.
All sessions which lasted for about three hours were held outside the clinic and at the RAS’ homes at
the community facility.
Topics Discussed
1. Boat Sinking Re-ignites Australia Asylum Debate – 25 June 2012
2. More Refugees: The Greens’ Solution to the Asylum-Seeker Crisis – 25 June 2012
Amended to s47E(d) only
FOI Page 144 of 881
FOI Document #21
Amended to s47E(d) only
How often are you in contact with family/friends in home country and/or Australia?
The RAS at the community facility are in regular contact with their family/friends in Sri Lanka and/or
Australia whenever they wish to.
CLO’s Comments: Insight, Recommendations, Notes re changing perspectives, etc
s47E(d)
Patterns in Interviewee Access to Information
The only mainstream news available here on TV is in Bahasa Indonesia which is not widely
understood. Most of the RAS in community facilities read and watch news on the internet, such as
BBC, CNN, ABC for English language and Makkal TV, Sun TV, tamilnet.com, tamilwin.com,
lankasrinews.com, athirvu.com and manithan.com for Tamil language. Some of them have their own
laptops.
All the RAS in the community facilities have mobiles phones legitimately obtained. These people are
well informed on the situation in Sri Lanka and other countries such Australia, Canada, France,
Switzerland and Malaysia. Some of them have family and friends living abroad.
The RAS in the detention centre have “black” mobile phones and are able to keep in touch with their
families and relatives in Sri Lanka and other countries such as Australia and Canada. They are also in
touch with their friends in other countries and in the community facilities in Indonesia.
FOI Page 145 of 881
FOI Document #21
Dari-speaking CLO Counseling Session
BiWeekly Report
14-29 June 2012/Bogor
Specific Locations of Interviews
KENANGA I
IOM’s information centre, its social workers and clinic are located in KENANGA I, a townhouse style
cluster of six houses and 15 rooms most of which are occupied by migrants, through from time to
time they are also rented to tourists.
The caseload regularly visits the centre for health- and social services assistance and to use the small
library in the information centre as well as coming there to ask questions about their cases and other
issues.
People who are not under IOM care also use the centre form time to time, asking questions, using the
library and reading the latest news stories which are translated to Dari and Tamil and put into the
CLO’s Information Binder for that purposes.
There is an IOM clinic there which is mainly used for pre-embarkation check- ups for approved
refugees being relocated to other countries.
CANGKUDU
Cangkudu is a rooming house consisting of 27 rooms connected to Kenanga I.
There are 31 migrants: 16 Afghans, 12 Sri-Lankans, 3 Iraqis.
KANANGA II
KANANGA II is a townhouse-style cluster of 4 houses and 29 rooms under IOM’s care.
There are 39 migrants: 11 Afghans, 13 Sri-Lankan, 7 Iraqis, 8 Iranians.
UBERSAM HOTEL
Ubersam Hotel partly rented by IOM in which 124 migrants reside: 57 Afghans, seven Sri- Lankans,
23 Iraqis, 30 Iranians, two Pakistanis and five Myanmarese.
Numbers/Demographics of IMs
At the time of this reporting, there are a total of 460 migrants in Cisarua/Bogor, 274 of whom are
Dari/Farsi-speaking Afghans (161: 95 male and 66 female) and Iranians (113: 58 male and 55 female).
Currently there are seven other nationalities under IOM care in this area: Sri Lankan (77), Iraqis (69),
Pakistanis (2), Palestinian (21), Algerian (1), Myanmar (5) and Syrian (4).
Number/Description of Interviewees
During reporting period CLO counseled a total of 56 Afghans between the ages of 16 and 59 who are
under IOM care and five individuals who are not under any organization’s care, who came to the
information centre.
CLO counseled them in small groups of between three and five people
During the same reporting period the CLO also counseled 35 Iranians between ages of 25 and 48 who
are also under IOM care in Puncak.
Topics Discussed
1. More refugees: the Green’s solution to the asylum-seekers crisis.
2. Boat sinking reignites Australia asylum debate.
Summary of Comments by Topic/Theme
FOI Page 146 of 881
FOI Document #21
Amended to s47E(d) only
How often are you in contact with family/friends in home country and/or Australia?
Most of them have regular contact with their families mainly by mobile and some using Internet and contacting
their families and friends through Skype.
CLO’s Comments: Insight, Recommendations, Notes re changing perspectives, etc
s47E(d)
Patterns in Interviewee Access to Information
The Puncak caseload is generally well informed, reflecting wide access to information
because they are living in community- based accommodation and they are free to have access
to variety of sources of information.
FOI Page 147 of 881
FOI Document #21
They are reading the Farsi BBC News website as well a
s (http://www.aapa.org.au/) website
run by Afghan Australian Philanthropic Association in Australia. The Kabul press weblog is a
Farsi weblog run by Afghans and some time they put news and articles about the refugees
and Australian policies about the refugees.
news.com.au, newsnow.com.au, abc.net.au
Some of them read the Australian Immigration website and follow the news of Australian
policy on that website.
They also have mobile phones and are contacting their friends or family members when ever
they like.
The IOM information centre is a way to get information. They are coming to the information
centre almost every day. They have access to the CLO binder that contains translations of all
the news stories provided by ACBPS as well as printout of selected BBC news stories from a
parallel IOM project.
FOI Page 148 of 881
FOI Document #22
Dari-Speaking CLO Counseling Session
Biweekly Report
20thDec 12 to 4thJan 2013
Bogor/Puncak, West Java
Specific Locations of Interviews
Bogor, West Java
Community Living Facility:
Kenanga 1
Cangkudu
Ubersam
Villa Lora
Esten Torpedo
Kenanga 11
Numbers/Demographics of IMs
In Bogor, at the time of this reporting, there are a total of 407 migrants receiving IOM support,
including 137 Afghans, 53 Sri Lankans, 56 Iraqis, 108 Iranians, two Pakistanis, 33 Palestinians, 13
Myanmarese, one Algerian, four Syrians and one Ethiopian. There are a total 230 males and 177
females.
Number/Description of Interviewees
In Bogor, the CLO counseled eight families consisting of 12 males aged 20 – 52 and females aged 18 –
43, along with 14 male single from Afghanistan aged 18 – 45 and four single Iranian males aged 23 –
30 the community facilities and out of the community.
All sessions lasted for about one hour to 90 minutes were held in Kananga 1 and other places.
Topics Discussed
1. The impact of bridging visas on people’s decision-making.
2. Nauru conditions
Summary of Comments by Topic/Theme
1. There is not much to report, the refugees and asylum seeker were already aware about the
issuing of bridging visa. They welcome Australian government’s decision to releasing the
asylum seekers in the community. Amended to s47E(d) only
FOI Page 149 of 881
FOI Document #22
Amended to s47E(d) only
2. CLO also discussed Nauru living condition with refugees and asylum seekers. There were
different views.
Amended to s47E(d) only
How often are you in contact with family/friends in home country and/or Australia?
-
The RAS at the community facility are in regular contact with their family/friends in their
home country and Australia whenever they wish to.
CLO’s Comments: Insight, Recommendations, Notes re changing perspectives, etc N/A
Patterns in Interviewee Access to Information
The only mainstream (non-cable) news available in the community is in Bahasa Indonesia which is
not widely understood. Most of the RAS in community facilities read and watch news on the Internet,
such as BBC, CNN, ABC for English language Most of them have their own laptops.
All RAS in the community facilities have mobiles phones legitimately obtained. These people are well
informed on the situation in Afghanistan, Iran and Pakistan and other countries such Australia,
Canada, France, Switzerland and Malaysia. Some of them have family and friends living abroad.
FOI Page 150 of 881
FOI Document #22
Dari/Farsi Speaking CLO Counseling Session
Biweekly Report
20thDec 12 to 4thJan 2013
Makassar, South Sulawesi
PM Note:
Government of Australia clarifications regarding Bridging Visas were provided after this period of
counseling. Reaction to this will be captured in the next report.
Specific Locations of Interviews
Makassar Detention Centre
Hotels/Rooming Houses
Wisma Permata Hotel
Wisma Favorite
ZN Guest House
Borong Life House
Wisma Dirgantara
Wisma Bonta tanga
NB: there are 19 self-surrendered Afghan RAS including children and women being accommodated
in the main Immigration office.
Numbers/Demographics of IMs
During the reporting period there were a total of 293 RAS receiving IOM assistance in Makassar,
including 148 Afghans (122 male and 26 female), five Sri Lankan (five male), 12 Iraqis (eight male
and four female), 66 Iranians (39 male and 27 female), five Vietnamese(three male and two female),
13 Pakistani ( 12 male and one female), four Sudanese(four male), 20 from Myanmar (11 male and
nine female), 19 Somalis (13 male and six female) and one Ethiopian (one male) . There are a total of
76 RAS in Makassar IDC and 217 RAS in the community facility, under IOM care.
Number/Description of Interviewees
During the reporting period, CLO counseled approximately 33 Afghan men in the IDC, between the
ages of 16 to 55 years. The counseling sessions took place in the common area of the DC and
individual rooms where RAS are residing. The counseling sessions were held for small groups of
between one and three people. One-on-one sessions were also provided.
Approximately 40 Afghan men and women living in communities under IOM care were counseled.
The counseling sessions were in groups of between one and four RAS. Each session was held in the
common area of their residence.
Roughly 15 Iranians, aged 17-50 were provided counseling in the common area of their hotel.
Approximately four Iraqis nationals, age 18 to 45 were also counseled in the community housing in
Makassar.
Topics Discussed
1.
Impact of Bridging visas
2.
Living conditions in Nauru and Manus
FOI Page 151 of 881
FOI Document #22
Summary of Comments by Topic/Theme 1
As the issue of bridging visas has already been discussed, there was not much to say from
their side, Amended to s47E(d) only
Amended to s47E(d) only
How often are you in contact with family/friends in home country and/or Australia?
-
Most regularly contact their families/ friends, once a week or at least once each two weeks.
FOI Page 152 of 881
FOI Document #22
CLO’s Comments: Insight, Recommendations, Notes re changing perspectives, etc
s47E(d)
Patterns in Interviewee Access to Information
In the past few weeks the restriction on internet enable computer and mobile phone have been lifted.
RAS have internet enabled computers in their rooms, and can contact anyone in the world, including
Australia and their country of origin; there is no restriction of the usage of mobile phone and internet
inside DC.
They also have access to TV with foreign channels, and receive the Jakarta post and BBC News from
IOM staff.
The main sources of information among the IMs in DC are:
Word of mouth ( talking to each other and sharing information)
Calling family and friends all over the world
Contacting family and friends through internet (Skype, yahoo messenger, face book etc...)
Accessing some Indonesian newspapers, BBC Dari service stories printed and distributed by
a parallel IOM initiative.
News stories and other material provided by CLO
Most frequently accessed websites with limited access
o BBC Dari-Language service
o
www.facebook.com
o
www.yahoo.com
News papers
o BBC Dari news
o Jakarta post
TV
o Three TV sets with access to foreign channels (Pakistan TV, Afghan TV, and other
English news channels
Those who are living in community accommodation in Makassar, have access to all media materials,
they have mobile phones, internet enabled computer, TV with foreign news channels (eg Al Jazeera),
and having contact with local people in the community.
There is no restriction on their movements in the city.
FOI Page 153 of 881
FOI Document #22
Tamil-Speaking CLO Counseling Session
Biweekly Report
20thDec 12 to 4thJan 2013
Medan, North Sumatra
Specific Locations of interviews
Belawan Detention Centre
Community Living Facility:
YPAP1
Wisma Keluarga
Numbers/Demographics of IMs At the time of this report there are a total of 783 RAS receiving IOM support in Medan, including 260
Afghans, 236 Sri Lankans, two Indians, 10 Iraqis, 23 Iranians, 215 Myanmars, four Somalis, 18
Palestinians, five Pakistanis and 10 Bangladeshis.
There are 263 people in the Belawan detention centre and 520 in community facilities under IOM care
consisting of 126 females and 657 males.
Number/Description of Interviewees
CLO counseled 10 single male RAS aged 34 – 51 and two female RAS aged 24 - 25 at the detention
centre along with 12 male RAS aged 26 – 37 and three female RAS aged 42 – 51 at the community
facility.
All sessions lasted about one hour and were held at detention centre clinic and classroom, and the
RAS’ homes.
Topics Discussed
3. Bridging Visas
4. Conditions in Nauru &
Summary of Comments by Topic/Theme (use direct quotes if suitable)
1. There is little new to report. Amended to s47E(d) only
Amended to s47E(d) only
FOI Page 154 of 881
FOI Document #22
Amended to s47E(d) only
How often are you in contact with family/friends in home country and/or Australia?
-
The RAS at the community facility are in regular contact with their family/friends in Sri
Lanka and/or Australia whenever they wish to. The RAS at the detention centre are in contact
with family/friends in home country and/or Australia as and when it is possible.
CLO’s Comments: Insight, Recommendations, Notes re changing perspectives, etc
s47E(d)
Patterns in Interviewee Access to Information
The only mainstream news available here on TV is in Bahasa Indonesia which is not widely
understood. Most of the RAS in community facilities read and watch news on the internet, such as
BBC, CNN, ABC for English language and Makkal TV, Sun TV, tamilnet.com, tamilwin.com,
lankasrinews.com, athirvu.com and manithan.com for Tamil language. Some of them have their own
laptops.
All the RAS in the community facilities have mobiles phones legitimately obtained. These people are
well informed on the situation in Sri Lanka and other countries such Australia, Canada, France,
Switzerland and Malaysia. Some of them have family and friends living abroad.
The RAS in the detention centre have “black” mobile phones and are able to keep in touch with their
families and relatives in Sri Lanka and other countries such as Australia and Canada. They are also in
touch with their friends in other countries and in the community facilities in Indonesia.
FOI Page 155 of 881
FOI Document #23
Dari-speaking CLO Counseling Session
Biweekly Report
Makassar, South Sulawesi
Oct 15-26, 2012
Specific Locations of Interviews:
1. Makassar IDC: located 20km from IOM office
2. Hotels/Houses:
a. Wisma Permata Hotel: 12 Afghans; four Sri Lankan, and one Iranian
b. Wisma Favorite: four Afghans; seven Iranians, and two Pakistanis
c. ZN Guest House: 11 Afghans, 15 Iraqis and 40 Iranians
d. Borong Life House: 28 Afghans; three Iraqis; four Iranian; three Sudanese; 14
Myanmarese and nine Somalis
e. Wisma Dirgantara: Four Afghan families -total 19 people including children, and one
Iranian family of four.
Number/Demographics of IMs:
There are a total of 264 RAS receiving IOM assistance in Makassar.
They are 116 Afghans (99 male and 17 female), 4 Sri Lankan (male), 18 Iraqis (12 male and 6 female),
56 Iranians (31 male and 25 female), 21 Vietnamese (18 male and 3 female), 3 Pakistani (male), 4
Sudanese (male), 21 Myanmarese (17 male and 4 female), 20 Somalis (14 male and 6 female) and 1
Ethiopian (male).
There are a total of 84 RAS in Makassar DC and 180 RAS living in the community under IOM care.
Number/Description of Interviewees
CLO counseled 80 persons during the reporting period:
-
35 Afghan men in Makassar IDC, age between 16 to 55 years.
-
Approx 30 Afghan men and women living in communities under IOM care were counseled,
the counseling sessions were in a group of one to four RAS, each session was held in the
common area of their residence.
-
Approx 15 Iranian, age between17-50 were provided counseling, they were counseled in the
common area of their hotel, where they are being accommodated
Topics Discussed
Range of topics relating to offshore processing
Summary of Comments by Topic/Theme All IMs are well aware of the new regulations and policies of the Australian government, regarding
what happen to them should they come to Australia by boat consequently there is very little new
reaction to report.
Most are in contact with their families and friends back home and in other countries including
Australia. Those counseled said their family members in Australia advised them to follow the legal
route and not to risk being sent to a third country for processing.
Amended to s47E(d) only
FOI Page 156 of 881
FOI Document #23
Amended to s47E(d) only
CLO’s Comments: Insight, Recommendations, Notes re changing perspectives, etc
-
Nothing new to report
Patterns in Interviewee Access to Information
In Makassar DC more restrictive rules in terms of accessing internet and mobile phones have been
introduced, in the past all RAS were able to have a mobile phone, and could contact anyone in the
world, including Australia and their country of origin, they were also had access to internet enabled
computers, but now they are allowed to use their mobile phone and computer for limited amount of
time per day, they cannot have access to their phones and computers, because the immigration keep it
away from them.
They still have access to TV with foreign channels, and receive the Jakarta post and BBC News from
IOM staff.
The main sources of information among the IMs in DC are:
Word of mouth ( talking to each other and sharing information)
Calling family and friends all over the world(limited access)
Contacting family and friends through internet (Skype, Yahoo Messenger, Facebook etc)
limited access.
Accessing some Indonesian newspapers, BBC Dari service stories printed and distributed by
a parallel IOM initiative.
News stories and other material provided by CLO
Most frequently accessed websites with limited access
o BBC Dari-Language service
o
www.facebook.com
o
www.yahoo.com
News papers
o BBC Dari news
o Jakarta post
TV
o Three TV sets with access to foreign channels (Pakistan TV, Afghan TV, and other
English news channels
Those who are living in community accommodation in Makassar, have access to all media materials,
they have mobile phones, internet enabled computer, TV with foreign news channels (eg. Aljazeera),
and having contact with local people in the community.
There is no restriction on their movements in the city.
FOI Page 157 of 881
FOI Document #23
Tamil-speaking CLO Counseling Session
Biweekly Report
Oct 15-26, 2012
PM Note: CLO divided his time between Medan and Tj Pinang during the reporting period. Her
biweekly report has been structured to reflect this.
Medan, N Sumatra: 15 – 19 October
Tj Pinang, Riau: 22 - 26 October
1.MEDAN
Specific Locations of Interviews
1. YPAP 1
2. Wisma keluarga
Numbers/Demographics of IMs
There are a total of 659 RAS receiving IOM support in Medan; including 230 Afghans, 209 Sri
Lankans, two Indians, 23 Iraqis, 10 Iranians, 11 Pakistanis, 4 Somalis and 170 from Myanmar.
From those numbers, 157 RAS are in Belawan IDC and 502 RAS are in community facilities under
IOM care: 110 females and 549 males.
Number/Description of Interviewees
CLO has counseled 15 male RAS aged 24 – 38 at the community facilities in Medan.
Topics Discussed
1. Offshore processing
Amended to s47E(d) only
FOI Page 158 of 881
FOI Document #23
Amended to s47E(d) only
2.Tanjung Pinang, Riau
Specific Locations of Interviews
There are a total of 338 people receiving IOM support in Tanjung Pinang DC including 180 Afghans,
64 Sri Lankans, one Iraqi, five Palestinians, six Pakistanis, one Syrian and 81 Myanmarese.
There are 336 men and two women in the IDC.
Number/Description of Interviewees
CLO counseled 59 single male RAS aged 16 – 50 at the Tanjung Pinang DC along with 2 female RAS
aged 32 – 40
Topics Discussed
Range of topics relating to offshore processing
Summary of Comments by Topic/Theme (use direct quotes if suitable)
The RAS at the Tanjung Pinang DC are well aware of this news and understand that Australia is
being serious with the implementation of the offshore processing.
Amended to s47E(d) only
Generally, the RAS in the Tanjung Pinang DC understand that Australia has made the right decision
in implementing this offshore processing to protect their borders Amended to s47E(d) only
FOI Page 159 of 881
FOI Document #23
CLO’s Comments: Insight, Recommendations, Notes re changing perspectives, etc
s47E(d)
Patterns in Interviewee Access to Information
The only mainstream news available here on TV is in Bahasa Indonesia which is not widely
understood. Most of the RAS in community facilities read and watch news on the internet, such as
BBC, CNN, ABC for English language and Makkal TV, Sun TV, tamilnet.com, tamilwin.com,
lankasrinews.com, athirvu.com and manithan.com for Tamil language. Some of them have their own
laptops.
All the RAS in the community facilities have mobiles phones legitimately obtained. These people are
well informed on the situation in Sri Lanka and other countries such Australia, Canada, France,
Switzerland and Malaysia. Some of them have family and friends living abroad.
The RAS in the detention centre have “black” mobile phones and are able to keep in touch with their
families and relatives in Sri Lanka and other countries such as Australia and Canada. They are also in
touch with their friends in other countries and in the community facilities in Indonesia
FOI Page 160 of 881
FOI Document #24
Dari-speaking CLO Counseling Session
Biweekly Report
Oct 15-26, 2012
PM Note: CLO divided his time between Bogor/Puncak and Riau province during the reporting
period. In the former, IOM caseload lives in the community and is regularly counseled by the CLO. In
the latter, the caseload resides in an IDC and has not been counseled by a CLO in recent months. His
biweekly report has been structured to reflect this.
Pekanbaru, Riau: 15 – 19 October
Bogor, West Java: 22 - 26 October
Specific Locations of Interviews
Pekanbaru Immigration Detention Centre (IDC)
Numbers/Demographics of IMs
At the time of this reporting, there are a total of 254 migrants in Pekanbaru IDC, 72 of whom are
Dari/Farsi and Pashto speaking Afghans and Pakistanis (43 Afghan male and female), Pakistanis (5
Male) and Iranians (24 male and female).
Currently there are seven other nationalities under IOM care in this area: Sri Lankan (98), Iraqis (14),
Palestinian (22), Myanmar (21) and Syrian (5).
Number/Description of Interviewees
During reporting period CLO counseled a total of 55 Afghans, Iranians and Pakistanis. CLO
counseled them in small groups of between two, five and fifteen people.
Topics Discussed
Range of topics relating to offshore processing
Reaction
There is a high level of awareness about offshore processing and changes to family
reunification/sponsorship etc and very little new to report from Pekanbaru that has not been reported
in the past.
Amended to s47E(d) only
Amended to s47E(d) only
FOI Page 161 of 881
FOI Document #24
Amended to s47E(d) only
Patterns in Interviewee Access to Information
The Pekanbaru caseload is generally well informed, reflecting wide access to information
because they have access to internet and majority of them are free to have access to variety of
sources of information.
They are reading the Farsi BBC News website as well a
s (http://www.aapa.org.au/) website
run by Afghan Australian Philanthropic Association in Australia. The Kabul press weblog is a
Farsi weblog run by Afghans and some time they put news and articles about the refugees
and Australian policies about the refugees.
news.com.au, newsnow.com.au, abc.net.au
Some of them read the Australian Immigration website and follow the news of Australian
policy on that website.
They also have mobile phones and are contacting their friends or family members when ever
they like.
FOI Page 162 of 881
FOI Document #24
Bogor
Specific Locations of Interviews
KENANGA I
IOM’s information centre, its social workers and clinic are located in this townhouse style cluster of 6
houses and 15 rooms most of which are occupied by migrants.
CANGKUDU
Cangkudu is a rooming house consisting of 27 rooms connected to Kenanga I.
There are 33 migrants: 10 Afghans, 17 Sri-Lankans, 3 Iraqis, 1 Eth and 2 Iranian.
KANANGA II
KANANGA II is a townhouse-style cluster of 4 houses and 29 rooms under IOM’s care.
There are 51 migrants: 11 Afghans, 8 Sri-Lankan, 11 Iraqis, 16 Iranians and 5 Palestinian.
UBERSAM HOTEL
Ubersam Hotel partly rented by IOM in which 107 migrants reside: 54 Afghans, 5 Sri- Lankans, 19
Iraqis, 22 Iranians, 2 Pakistanis and 5 Myanmares.
Church World Services Centre in Cipaun
UNHCR uses CWS twice a week to register new asylum seekers.
Numbers/Demographics of IMs
At the time of this reporting, there are a total of 474 migrants in Cisarua /Bogor, 276 of whom are
Dari/Farsi and Pushto speaking Afghans (160: 97 male and 63 female), Pakistanis (2 Male) and
Iranians (114: 54 male and 60 female). Currently there are seven other nationalities under IOM care in
this area: Sri Lankan (75), Iraqis (72), Palestinian (33), Algerian (1), Myanmar (12) and Syrian (4).
Number/Description of Interviewees
During reporting period CLO counseled a total of 30 Afghans and Iranians and 12 Pakistanis whom
were not registered with UNHCR. CLO counseled them in small groups of between two, five and
eight people.
Topics Discussed
Range of topics relating to offshore processing
Reactions
All migrants living Amended to
are aware of off-shore processing and there is nothing
significant to report in terms of ne
s47E(d) only
w reactions.
Amended to s47E(d) only
FOI Page 163 of 881
FOI Document #24
Patterns in Interviewee Access to Information
The Puncak caseload is generally well informed, reflecting wide access to information
because they are living in community- based accommodation and they are free to have access
to variety of sources of information.
They are reading the Farsi BBC News website as well a
s (http://www.aapa.org.au/) website
run by Afghan Australian Philanthropic Association in Australia. The Kabul press weblog is a
Farsi weblog run by Afghans and some time they put news and articles about the refugees
and Australian policies about the refugees.
news.com.au, newsnow.com.au, abc.net.au
Some of them read the Australian Immigration website and follow the news of Australian
policy on that website.
They also have mobile phones and are contacting their friends or family members when ever
they like.
The IOM information centre is a way to get information. They are coming to the information
centre almost every day. They have access to the CLO binder that contains translations of all
the news stories provided by ACBPS as well as printout of selected BBC news stories from a
parallel IOM project.
FOI Page 164 of 881
FOI Document #25
Dari/Farsi Speaking CLO Counseling Session
Biweekly Report
24 May 2013 - Makassar, South Sulawesi
Specific Locations of Interviews
IDC Makassar
Community Housing:
- ZN Guest House
- Wisma Bonto Tangga
- Wisma Permata,
- Wisma KPI
- Borong Life Home
- Wisma Mahkota
- Wisma Mustika
Numbers/Demographics of IMs
During the reporting period there were a total of 437 RAS receiving IOM assistance in Makassar,
including 230 Afghans (170 male and 60 female), five Sri Lankan (five male), 13 Iraqis (eight
male and five female), 82 Iranians (50 male and 32 female), 18 Pakistani (17 male and one
female), seven Sudanese (six male and one female), 76 from Myanmar (56 male and 20 female)
and six Somalis (four male and two female). There are a total of 47 RAS in Makassar DC and 390
RAS in the community facilities and immigration office under IOM care. There are also 159 RAS
receiving IOM assistance in Kendari. The grand total is 596 RAS.
Number/Description of Interviewees
During the reporting period around 25 Afghan and five Pakistani aged around 17 to 55 were
counseled inside DC in Makassar. The counseling sessions took place in the common area of the
DC and individual room where RAS are residing. The counseling sessions were held in small
groups between one and three people.
Approximately 50 Afghan men and women aged 18 to 60 living in communities under IOM care
were counseled. The counseling sessions were groups of between one and four RAS, in the
common areas of their residence.
Approximately 20 Iranian aged 17 to 50 were counseled in the common area of their hotel,
where they are being accommodated.
Topics Discussed
1. Smugglers cram more women, kids on the boats, The Australian, 8 May, 2013
2. Mainland exclusion laws pass parliament, 16 May, 2013
3. Up-coming federal election in Australia
Amended to s47E(d) only
FOI Page 165 of 881
FOI Document #25
Amended to s47E(d) only
Topic 2
Most RAS were aware of the excision laws passed by the parliament, and were curious about the
details/consequences of the new rules. Some understood it to mean Australia will turn around
boats from Australia to Indonesia, which makes RAS curious about whether it means that no
one will be able to make it to Australia. Amended to s47E(d) only
The RAS are very keen to know the details of any decisions related to migration and asylum
seekers made by the government of Australia, and to find out how it will affect them here in
Indonesia. Amended to s47E(d) only
Topic 3
The issue of the upcoming federal election in Australian is a very hot topic among RAS. There is
much interest and many queries about the consequences of the current opposition winning the
election, in particular in relation to migration and seeking asylum. Amended to s47E(d) only
Amended to s47E(d) only
How often are you in contact with family/friends in home country and/or Australia?
- Most RAS regularly contact their families/ friends, once a week or at least once every
two weeks.
FOI Page 166 of 881
FOI Document #25
CLO’s Comments: Insight, Recommendations, Notes re changing perspectives, etc.
s47E(d)
Patterns in Interviewee Access to Information
Makassar IDC has restrictive rules in terms of accessing internet and mobile phones. They are
only allowed to use their mobile phone and computer for limited amount of time per day.
They still have access to TV with foreign channels, and receive the Jakarta Post and BBC News
from IOM staff.
The main sources of information among the IMs in DC are:
Word of mouth (talking to each other and sharing information)
Calling family and friends all over the world (limited access)
Contacting family and friends through internet (Skype, Yahoo Messenger, Facebook
etc...) limited access.
Accessing some Indonesian newspapers, BBC Dari service stories printed and
distributed by a parallel IOM initiative.
News stories and other material provided by CLO
Most frequently accessed websites with limited access
o BBC Dari-Language service
o
www.facebook.com
o
www.yahoo.com
News papers
o BBC Dari news
o Jakarta post
TV
o Three TV sets with access to foreign channels (Pakistan TV, Afghan TV, and
other English news channels
Those who are living in community accommodation in Makassar, have access to all media
materials, they have mobile phones, internet enabled computer, TV with foreign news channels
(such as Al Jazeera), and having contact with local people in the community.
There is no restriction on their movements in the city.
FOI Page 167 of 881
FOI Document #25
Dari/Farsi Speaking CLO Counseling Session
Biweekly Report
24 May 2013 - Bogor, West Java
Specific Locations of Interviews
Bogor, West Java
Community Living Facility:
Kenanga 1, Cangkudu, Ubersam, Villa Lora, Esten Torpedo, Kenanga 2.
Numbers/Demographics of IMs in Bogor
In Bogor, at the time of this reporting, there are a total of 335 migrants receiving IOM support,
including 107 Afghans, 47 Sri Lankans, 38 Iraqis, 91 Iranians, one Pakistani, 32 Palestinians, 13
Myanmars, one Algerian, four Syrians and one Ethiopian. There are a total 185 males and 150
females.
Number/Description of Interviewees in Bogor
In Bogor, CLO counseled a total of 40 refugees and asylum seekers from ten family groups
consisting of nine male aged 18 – 53 and 11 female aged 19 – 45, along with 20 single males from
Afghanistan and Iran aged 17 – 51 from the community facilities and out of the community. All
sessions which lasted for one to one and half hours were held in Kananga I, Ubersam, Villa Lora,
Kananga II and other places.
Topics Discussed
4. People smugglers sending more families to Australia
5. Families will be released on bridging visas
6. Deporting of 1000 Sri Lankan asylum seeker
Amended to s47E(d) only
FOI Page 168 of 881
FOI Document #25
Amended to s47E(d) only
CLO’s Comments: Insight, Recommendations, Notes re changing perspectives, etc - N/A
Patterns in Interviewee Access to Information
The only mainstream (non-cable) news available in the community is in Bahasa Indonesia, which is
not widely understood.
Most of the RAS in community facilities read and watch news on the Internet, satellite TV, BBC,
CNN, ABC (Australia) for English language courses. Most of them have their own laptops.
All RAS in the community facilities have mobile phones legitimately obtained. These people are
well informed on the situation in Afghanistan, Iran and Pakistan and other countries such Australia,
Canada, France, Switzerland and Malaysia. Some of them have family and friends living abroad.
FOI Page 169 of 881
FOI Document #25
Tamil-Speaking CLO Counseling Session
Biweekly Report
24 May 2013 - Medan, North Sumatra
Specific Locations of interviews
Belawan Detention Centre
Community Living Facility:
- YPAP1
- Wisma Keluarga
Numbers/Demographics of IMs At the time of this report there are a total of 894 RAS receiving IOM support in Medan, including
308 Afghans, 217 Sri Lankans, 238 Myanmars, 27 Iraqis, 41 Iranians, 40 Palestinians, 11
Pakistanis, four Somalis, six Bangladeshis, one Kuwaiti and one Syrian. There are 124 RAS in
Belawan Detention Centre and 770 RAS in community facilities under IOM care which includes
189 female RAS and 705 male RAS.
Number/Description of Interviewees
CLO counseled 27 single male RAS aged 27 – 52 at the Detention Centre along with 16 male RAS
aged 24 – 52 and 11 female RAS aged 28 – 48 at the community facility. All sessions which
lasted for about one hour were held at the clinic and the interview room at the Detention
Centre, and the RAS homes at the community facility.
Topics Discussed
1. Smugglers cram more women, kids on to boat – The Australian, 8 May 2013
2. Reintegration of failed asylum-seekers ‘challenging’ – The Australian, 19 April 2013
3. More than 1,000 Sri Lankan irregular maritime arrivals removed – Press Release, 18
April 2013
Amended to s47E(d) only
The RAS are well informed by their families and friends in Australia on the situation of asylum
seekers Amended to s47E(d) only
. The RAS
mentioned that usually asylum seekers depend on the information received from their families
and friends in Australia while making a decision.
Amended to s47E(d) only
FOI Page 170 of 881
FOI Document #25
Amended to s47E(d) only
How often are you in contact with family/friends in home country and/or Australia?
The RAS at the community facility are in regular contact with their family/friends in Sri Lanka
and/or Australia whenever they wish to. The RAS at the detention centre are in contact with
family/friends in home country and/or Australia as and when it is possible.
CLO’s Comments: Insight, Recommendations, Notes re changing perspectives, etc
s47E(d)
Patterns in Interviewee Access to Information
The only mainstream news available here on TV is in Bahasa Indonesia which is not widely
understood. Most of the RAS in community facilities read and watch news on the internet, such
as BBC, CNN, ABC for English language and Makkal TV, Sun TV, tamilnet.com, tamilwin.com,
FOI Page 171 of 881
FOI Document #25
lankasrinews.com, athirvu.com and manithan.com for Tamil language. Some of them have their
own laptops.
All the RAS in the community facilities have mobiles phones legitimately obtained. These people
are well informed on the situation in Sri Lanka and other countries such Australia, Canada,
France, Switzerland and Malaysia. Some of them have family and friends living abroad.
The RAS in the detention centre have “black” mobile phones and are able to keep in touch with
their families and relatives in Sri Lanka and other countries such as Australia and Canada. They
are also in touch with their friends in other countries and in the community facilities in
Indonesia.
FOI Page 172 of 881
A
m
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d
e
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t
o
s
4
7
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)
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l
y
FOI Document #26
CLO Reporting for Tuesday 30JUL2013
Salient points:
• Messaging is widespread.
Amended to s47E(d) only
Kupang (Dari)
Approximately 30 Iranians, aged around 18 - 50 were counselled in their accommodation facility in
Kupang.
Al were aware of the new policy of the GoA. Details and explanations were provided to
provide full information.
Amended to s47E(d) only
Bogor (Dari)
The CLO counselled 12 Iranians and 6 Afghans in Cisarua Bogor (none of which are under IOM
care). Yesterday around 75 bundles of the GoA dissemination materials (including Dari Regional
Settlement Arrangement, Dari Media Release, English Regional Settlement Arrangement etc) were
distributed and explained to the Iranians who recently arrived in Cisarua, Bogor. Amended to
s47E(d) only
FOI Page 173 of 881
FOI Document #26
Amended to s47E(d) only
Jimbaran, Bali (Tamil)
The CLO counselled 10 males & females Tamil-speaking aged 17 – 34 in the IDC.
• All the migrants in this group are aware of this news as the fact sheets on this policy were
disseminated to them last week.
Amended to s47E(d) only
• No new questions were raised by the RAS.
FOI Page 174 of 881
FOI Document #27
s47F
Subject: Rohingya Cohort Reporting: Indonesia - 18 November 2013 [SEC=UNCLASSIFIED]
All,
Please find below CLO reporting from the Rohingya community in Indonesia.
s47F
Rohingya Cohort Reporting - 18 November 2013
Amended to s47E(d) only
Levels of Awareness of GoA Messaging
• Very high levels of awareness regarding the July 19 policy that no individual arriving in Australia by
boat will ever be resettled in Australia.
• Similar high levels of awareness that all irregular maritime arrivals will be sent PNG for processing
and if claims are found to be valid, will be resettled in PNG, not Australia.
Amended to s47E(d) only
Rohingya Information Sources
• Primary source of trusted information is through IOM project staff and consultants.
• Secondary sources are Rohingyas currently detained at Christmas Island, those who have been
transferred to Manus, PNG, and fellow Rohingyas living legally in Australia.
• Some also cited the Internet as a news and information source.
Amended to s47E(d) only
FOI Page 175 of 881
FOI Document #27
Amended to s47E(d) only
s47F
First Secretary, Jakarta l Australian Embassy
Australian Customs & Border Protection Service
s47F
This email message and any attached files may be protected information under section 16 of
the Customs Administration Act 1985 (CA Act) and may also contain information that is
confidential, and/or subject to legal professional privilege.
The content of this email is intended only for use by the individual or entity to whom it is
addressed.
If you ARE the intended recipient, and are subject to an undertaking provided under section
16 of the CA Act, you must not use or further disclose the information within this email except
for the purpose for which it was provided to you or otherwise as required or authorised by
law.
If you are NOT the intended recipient, you must not use, copy, disseminate, forward, retain or
reproduce this email. If you receive this email in error, please notify the Customs Incident
Response Centre immediately on 1800 303 387 (24hrs) and delete all copies of this email and
any attachments.
Unsolicited commercial emails MUST NOT be sent to the originator of this email.
FOI Page 176 of 881
FOI Document #28
Rohingya in Indonesia, February 2014
Rohingya in Indonesia
Background
The following report reflects the views of 96 of the 593 Rohingya under IOM care who were
interviewed in focus group discussions and one-on-one conversations by native-speaking IOM
interpreters in Immigration Detention Centres and community living facilities. These discussions
were held in five locations including Medan, Tanjung Pinang, Jakarta, Surabaya and Makassar
during February 2014. Amended to s47E(d) only
Amended to s47E(d) only
Reasons for leaving home country
All Rohingya indicated that as a Muslim minority without citizenship they departed Myanmar due to:
- Community racial discrimination.
- State-sanctioned discrimination.
- Inter-communal violence.
- Lack of economic opportunities.
- Lack of education opportunities.
- Restricted mobility.
- High taxes on staple products.
- Forced labor.
- Arson.
- Land confiscations.
- Ongoing violence at the hands of the state (including police and army).
Amended to s47E(d) only
Page 1 of 5
FOI Page 177 of 881
FOI Document #28
Rohingya in Indonesia, February 2014
Amended to s47E(d) only
Page 2 of 5
FOI Page 178 of 881
FOI Document #28
Rohingya in Indonesia, February 2014
Amended to s47E(d) only
Page 3 of 5
FOI Page 179 of 881
FOI Document #28
Rohingya in Indonesia, February 2014
Language
The Rohingya have very low literacy rates as a result of their impoverished rural backgrounds and
lack of education. Further, the Rohingyalish script is not widely read or taught. These factors are a
significant barrier to information access for Rohingya in Indonesia.
A limited number of Rohingya migrants under IOM care indicated they lived in Yangon prior to
leaving Myanmar and as such can read/write Burmese. There was also a handful of Rohingya in each
location who can communicate in rudimentary English and/or Urdu.
Many of those who lived in Malaysia can speak Bahasa Melayu and consequently pick up Bahasa
Indonesia with relative ease.
Awareness of Australian Government Policy
There are generally high levels of awareness of current Australian government policy among the
Rohingya interviewed, although there are variations depending on how long they have been in
Indonesia, and to what extent they are able to freely access information.
Amended to s47E(d) only
Access to Information
The majority of Rohingya in Medan and Makassar can access the Internet in their community
housing through smartphones or laptops and awareness in these areas is high. However in
Tanjung Pinang IDC, mobile telephone usage is restricted to those who have been determined to
be refugees, and Surabaya IDC strictly restricts internet access and non-Bahasa Indonesian
language media. Migrants in the latter two locations are more likely to rely on conversations with
cellmates and information disseminated by IOM.
Information Sources
Depending on their location in Indonesia, this cohort cites a number of information sources
including:
• Irregular migrants, including Rohingyas47E(d)
• Conversations with family and friends in Australia, Malaysia and Myanmar.
• News on the Internet and social media sources like Facebook.
• Fellow migrants in IDC or community accommodations.
Page 4 of 5
FOI Page 180 of 881
FOI Document #28
Rohingya in Indonesia, February 2014
Generally, Rohingya are distrustful of mainstream media. Rohingya in all locations stated their
preferred and most trusted information sources are family and friends living abroad who they are in
regular contact with. Contact occurs either directly by telephone or; for the limited number who
possess smart phones/laptops, through free voice and text applications such as Viber, Skype, Line,
WhatsApp and Kakao talk.
Those who are able to access and negotiate the Internet either on laptops in community
accommodation (particularly in Medan where the Rohingya migrant community is established), or
on smartphones cite “Rohingya Vision” (aka RVision) new
s http://www.rvisiontv.com/, and “ANA
Arakan Today News”. Both of these news services are available on YouTube. The group indicated
that reporting from both outlets is widely disseminated in discussions. Additionally, Facebook
appears to be the most popular social media tool to exchange information.
Amended to s47E(d) only
Page 5 of 5
FOI Page 181 of 881
FOI Document #29
Biweekly CLO Report
31 December 2013
Medan, North Sumatra (Tamil)
Specific Locations of Interviews
•
Belawan Detention Centre
•
Community Facilities
Numbers/Demographics of IMs
At the time of reporting there are a total of 1,334 asylum seekers (892 males and 442 females) receiving
IOM support including 282 Afghans, 288 Sri Lankans, 228 Myanmars, 166 Palestinians, 182 Iranians, 42
Iraqis, 31 Pakistanis, 11 Syrians, 65 Somalis, 6 Eritreans, 16 Sudanese, 14 Bangladeshis, 2 Kuwaiti and 1
Haitian. There are 217 persons in the Belawan Detention Centre and 1,117 persons at the community
facilities under IOM care.
Number/Description of Interviewees
CLO counseled 8 male Sri Lankans aged 24 to 53 at IDC. A 60- 90 minute session for four persons in a
group was held at the common area of IDC. At the community facility, 17 Sri Lankans (12 men, 5 women)
aged 24 to 50 were counseled. Two hour sessions for 4-8 people were held at the common area and the
asylum seekers homes at the accommodation.
Topics Discussed
Topic 1: Media release,” General Angus Campbell Operation Sovereign Border message”.
Topic 2: Australian Warship Removes 47 Immigrants
Summary of Comments by Topic/Theme (use direct quotes if suitable)
Topic 1
The group fully understands Australia’s immigration policies; Amended to s47E(d) only
Amended to s47E(d) only
1
FOI Page 182 of 881
FOI Document #29
Amended to s47E(d) only
2
FOI Page 183 of 881
FOI Document #29
Medan – North Sumatra (Dari/Farsi)
Specific Locations of Interviews
Community Facilities
Numbers/Demographics
At the time of reporting there are a total of 1,334 asylum seekers receiving IOM support including 282 Afghans,
288 Sri Lankans, 228 from Myanmar, 166 Palestinians, 182 Iranians, 65 Somalis, 42 Iraqis, 31 Pakistanis, 16
Sudanese, 14 Bangladeshis, 11 Syrians, six Eritreans, two Kuwaiti and one Haitian. There are 217 persons in the
Belawan Detention Centre, eight persons in the Kanim (Immigration Office), 30 UAMs in DINSOS accommodation
and 1,079 persons at the community facilities under IOM care.
Number/Description of Interviewees
During the reporting period, the CLO counseled approx. 30 Afghans, aged 8 - 55. The counseling sessions took
place in the foyer area of accommodations. The counseling sessions were held in groups of approx. 10 people per
group. One-on-one sessions were also provided.
Topic Discussed
Topic 1: Media release,” General Angus Campbell Operation Sovereign Border message”.
Topic 2: Australian Warship Removes 47 Immigrants
Summary of Comments by Topic/Theme
Topic 1
Amended to s47E(d) only
. Most of them know about the Australian immigration policy Amended to s47E(d)
only
Amended to s47E(d) only
When the CLO showed the group General Campbells’ video, some asylum seekers recalled that people smugglers
use this time of the year as a selling opportunity. The general feeling among Farsi speaking asylum seekers is that
Australian efforts to publicize its immigration policy have been effective. Amended to s47E(d) only
Amended to s47E(d) only
FOI Page 184 of 881
FOI Document #29
Amended to s47E(d) only
4
FOI Page 185 of 881
FOI Document #29
Surabaya, East Java (Dari/Farsi)
Specific Locations of Interviews
Surabaya, East Java
•
Surabaya Immigration Detention Centre, Bangil
•
Community Housing
Numbers/Demographics of IMs in Surabaya
At the time of reporting, there are 256 migrants receiving IOM support, including 151 Afghans, 15 Sri
Lankans, nine Iraqis, 29 Iranians, 27 Myanmars, 12 Somalis, nine Pakistanis, 1 Eritrean, and 3 Syrians.
Number/Description of Interviewees in Surabaya
In Surabaya, the CLO counseled 32 refugees and asylum seekers (all male) aged 17to 58 including 25
Afghans and 7 Iranians. Counseling took place in the community Housing Puspa Agro and Bangil, IDC.
All sessions which lasted for about one to one and half hours were held in IDC and community housing.
Topics Discussed
Topic 1: Media release,” General Angus Campbell Operation Sovereign Border message”.
Topic 2: Australian Warship Removes 47 Immigrants
Summary of Comments by Topic/Theme
Topic 1
General Angus’s message is not new to migrants. Amended to s47E(d) only
Amended to s47E(d) only
Topic 2
The asylum seekers in Surabaya were not interested in discussing this story. Amended to s47E(d)
only
5
FOI Page 186 of 881
FOI Document #30
CLO Report
Week Ending 27 September 2013
Bogor, West Java (Dari/Farsi)
CLO counseled 29 migrants, consisting of 16 Iranians (11 male, five female) and 13 Afghans (10 male and
3 female) in Cisarua, Bogor
Policy Changes
All migrants are aware of current government policy. Amended to s47E(d) only
Amended to s47E(d) only
1
FOI Page 187 of 881
FOI Document #30
Amended to s47E(d) only
“I’ll get Jakarta onboard on boats. Says Tony Abbott”- The Australian, Sep 24, 2013
The result of the Australian federal election is known to all migrants. Most of them are very keen to find
out more about any new policies/regulations of the new government.
Amended to s47E(d) only
“Boat arrivals face 48-hour turnaround” – the Australian, Sep 24, 2013
Most migrants were amazed about the suggestion of a 48-hour time frame for people to be sent to
offshore facilities in PNG or Nauru. Amended to s47E(d) only
Amended to s47E(d) only
2
FOI Page 188 of 881
FOI Document #30
Medan, North Sumatra (Dari/Farsi)
At the time of this report there are 158 migrants living in Belawan IDC, including 17 Afghans, 40 Iranians,
34 Sri Lankans, 17 Myanmar, 11 Eritrean, 10 Somalis, 9 Palestinian, 4 Iraqis, 1 Pakistanis, 5 Bangladeshis,
9 Sudanese, and 1 from Congo. In the community facility there are approx. 78 migrants, mainly families
from Afghanistan, Iran and Palestine. In Belawan IDC, CLO counseled a group of 5 Afghan migrants
aged 25 to 45 and 10 Iranians aged 20 to 45 separately in the interview room. In the community facility
CLO counseled a group of approx. 15 Afghans aged 18 to 55.
Amended to s47E(d) only
3
FOI Page 189 of 881
FOI Document #30
Medan, North Sumatra (Tamil)
At the time of this report there are a total of 158 migrants living in Belawan IDC, including 17 Afghans, 40
Iranians, 34 Sri Lankans, 17 Myanmar, 11 Eritrean, 10 Somalis, 9 Palestinian, 4 Iraqis, 1 Pakistani, 5
Bangladeshis, 9 Sudanese, and 1 from Congo. In the community facility there are approx. 78 mainly
families from Afghanistan, Iran and Palestine. CLO counseled 37 Sri Lankan migrants aged 20 – 53
including 10 female and 27 males at the Belawan Detention Centre and 3 community facilities.
Policy Changes All migrants are aware of the PNG and Nauru policy. They are also aware of the new measures being
established by the new Australian government. These measures include:
• Boat arrivals face 48-hour turnaround
• Using frigates, patrol boats and customs vessels to patrol the seas between Australia and
Indonesia.
Amended to s47E(d) only
DIAC video
CLO showed the DIAC video to the migrants Amended to s47E(d) only
Elections All the migrants counseled are aware of the opposition win. The migrants are already seeing a lot
measures being taken to stop asylum seekers from believing people smugglers and getting on a boat to
Australia. Amended to s47E(d) only
4
FOI Page 190 of 881
FOI Document #31
CLO Report - 20 September, 2013
Overview
Amended to s47E(d) only
2. Migrants believe that the vast majority are aware of the PNG policy due to the ease of access to
communications (phone, skype) media and social media such Facebook.
Surabaya, East Java (Dari/Farsi)
CLO counseled 30 males in Surabaya detention centre; and 14 Iranians and 16 Afghans in community housing.
Amended to s47E(d) only
Policy Changes
All migrants are aware of the current policy as they get daily phone and news updates from Australia Amende
d to
s47E(d)
only
Amended to s47E(d) only
Australian federal election
All migrants are aware the Liberals won the election Amended to s47E(d) only
CLO comment
N/A
1
FOI Page 191 of 881
FOI Document #31
Makassar, South Sulawesi (Dari/Farsi)
Around 25 Afghans (al male) and 3 Pakistani males were counseled inside Makassar IDC. Additional y, around 50
Afghans and 3 Iranians were counseled in community facilities in Makassar city.
Contacts/Information Sources
Migrants living in IDC and community facilities in Makassar are al owed to have access to print and digital media
(with no restrictions). They can also contact their friends and family member through Skype and social media like
Facebook.
Amended to s47E(d) only
Elections result
1. All migrants are aware of the new government in Australia.
2. Most migrants perceive the Opposition wil be tough on irregular migrants. Amended to s47E(d) only
PNG/Off-shore processing
1. Migrants are well informed about the policy of off-shore processing is stil in place.
2. Migrants are aware of the transfers to PNG and Nauru Amended to s47E(d) only
2
FOI Page 192 of 881
FOI Document #31
Medan, North Sumatra (Dari/Farsi)
CLO visited 2 community housing locations in Medan: one accommodates 67 Afghan men and the other
accommodates 78 men (mainly Afghans, Iranians and Palestinians). CLO counseled 25 Afghans in both locations.
Amended to s47E(d) only
s47E(d)
3
FOI Page 193 of 881
FOI Document #31
Medan, North Sumatra (Tamil)
CLO counseled 28 Sri Lankans aged 22 to 47 including 7 female and 21 males at the Belawan Detention Centre and
two community facilities.
Amended to s47E(d) only
DIAC video
CLO showed the DIAC video to the migrants Amended to s47E(d) only
Policy Changes
1. All migrants are aware of the PNG policy. Amended to s47E(d) only
Elections
1. All migrants are aware of the opposition win and believe there is going changes to asylum seeker policies.
2. The migrants who have heard about turning back boats are concerned for friends who are stil contemplating
going.Amended to s47E(d) only
s47E(d)
4
FOI Page 194 of 881
FOI Document #32
Biweekly CLO Report
Period ending 14 January 2014
Surabaya, East Java (Dari/Farsi)
The CLO counseled 42 male persons consisting of nine Iranians, 2 Somalis and 31 Afghans in the IDC and
Community Facilities in Surabaya.
Topic 1: Turn backs
Whilst no articles regarding “turn-backs or tow-backs” were provided to the asylum seekers, this was
the only topic they were interested in discussing. Amended to s47E(d) only
Amended to s47E(d) only
1
FOI Page 195 of 881
FOI Document #33
UNCLASSIFIED
Biweekly CLO Report
6 December 2013
Surabaya, East Java (Dari)
Locations of Interviews
Surabaya, East Java
•
Surabaya Immigration Detention Centre, Bangil
•
Surabaya Community Housing
Numbers/Demographics
In Surabaya at the time of reporting, there are 256 migrants receiving IOM support (including 151
Afghans, 15 Sri Lankans, 9 Iraqis, 29 Iranians, 27 Myanmar, 12 Somalis, 9 Pakistanis, 1 Eritrean
and 3 Syrians).
CLO counseled:
-38 refugees and asylum seekers (all male aged 17 – 58 years consisting of 27 Afghans and 11
Iranians).
-All counseling sessions (which lasted 60-90 minutes) were held in IDC or community housing.
Topics Discussed
1. Spying row with Indonesia may weaken Australia's defence
2. Morrison says smugglers 'trying things on'
3. Four corner report regarding Iraqi smugglers
Amended to s47E(d) only
1 of 8
CLO Report - Fortnight Ending 6th December 2013
FOI Page 196 of 881
FOI Document #33
UNCLASSIFIED
Amended to s47E(d) only
Topic 3- Four Corners Documentary
A group of Afghan refugees who saw the documentary indicated they know from experience
that all smugglers lie. Amended to s47E(d) only
CLO Comments
The migrants in the Surabaya community facility are in regular contact with family/friends in
their home country, Australia and other places whenever they wish to. In detention they don’t
have wide access to phone or internet, but a few refugees have access to phone and some asylum
seeker have access to phone and internet secretly to contact family and friends.
2 of 8
CLO Report - Fortnight Ending 6th December 2013
FOI Page 197 of 881
FOI Document #33
UNCLASSIFIED
Medan, North Sumatra (Tamil)
Specific Locations of Interviews
•
Belawan Detention Centre
•
Community Living
Numbers/Demographics of IMs
At the time of reporting there are a total of 1,282 migrants receiving IOM support including 278
Afghans, 286 Sri Lankans, 228 Myanmars, 145 Palestinians, 169 Iranians, 42 Iraqis, 31 Pakistanis,
11 Syrians, 61 Somalis, six Eritreans, 16 Sudanese, six Bangladeshis, two Kuwaiti and 1 Haitian.
There are 202 migrants in Belawan DC and 1,080 migrants at community facilities under IOM
care (including 865 male and 417 female migrants).
CLO counseled:
- 9 Sri Lankans aged (7 men, 2 women) aged 21 – 35 at the IDC.
- 21 Sri Lankans at the community facility (13 men, 7 women) aged 22 – 47.
Topics Discussed
1. Morrison says smugglers ‘trying things on’ – Sky News, November 22, 2013
2. Spying row with Indonesia may weaken Australia’s defence – The Sydney Morning Herald,
November 22, 2013
Amended to s47E(d) only
3 of 8
CLO Report - Fortnight Ending 6th December 2013
FOI Page 198 of 881
FOI Document #33
UNCLASSIFIED
Amended to s47E(d) only
2. How often are you in contact with family/friends in home country and/or Australia?
The migrants at Belawan IDC and the community facility are in regular contact with their
family/friends in Sri Lanka and/or Australia as and when it is possible.
s47E(d)
4 of 8
CLO Report - Fortnight Ending 6th December 2013
FOI Page 199 of 881
FOI Document #33
UNCLASSIFIED
Medan, North Sumatra (Dari/Farsi)
Specific Locations of Interviews
Community Facilities
Numbers/Demographics
At the time of reporting there are 1,282 migrants receiving IOM support including 278 Afghans,
286 Sri Lankans, 228 Myanmars, 145 Palestinians, 169 Iranians, 42 Iraqis, 31 Pakistanis, 11 Syrians,
61 Somalis, 6 Eritreans, 16 Sudanese, 6 Bangladeshis, 6 Kuwaiti and 1 Haitian. There are 202
migrants in the Belawan IDC and 1,080 migrants at the community facilities under IOM care
(including 865 males and 417 females).
CLO counseled:
- Approximately 35 Afghans (aged between 17 - 55 years old) in groups of ten; or one-on-one.
- The counseling session took place in the foyer area of accommodations and in YPAP 1 in one
beneficiary’s room.
Topic Discussed
1 .Morrison plays down Indonesian damage. Nine News National
– November 22, 2013
2. Spying row with Indonesia may weaken Australia's defence – The Sydney Morning Herald -
November 22, 2013
3. Leaving by boat in order to beat the on-set of monsoon season
Amended to s47E(d) only
5 of 8
CLO Report - Fortnight Ending 6th December 2013
FOI Page 200 of 881
FOI Document #33
UNCLASSIFIED
Amended to s47E(d) only
CLO Comments
Migrants who are living in community accommodation in Medan have access to all media
materials, mobile phones, internet enabled computer, TV and have contacts with local people in
the community. There is no restriction with their movement in the city during the day.
Amended to s47E(d) only
Some news sites they check on the internet are Salam Afghanistan, Hazara Asylum Seekers ABC
news and BBC Persian News.
6 of 8
CLO Report - Fortnight Ending 6th December 2013
FOI Page 201 of 881
FOI Document #33
UNCLASSIFIED
Makassar, South Sulawesi (Dari/Farsi)
Specific Locations of Interviews
At the time of reporting there were 411 migrants in IOM care in Makassar, consisting of 219
Afghans, 63 Iranians, 19 Iraqis, 71 Myanmars, 9 Bangladeshis, 7 Somalis, 12 Sudanese, 1 Eritrean,
three Ethiopians, 6 Palestinians, 1 Sri Lankan. There are 117 detainees at the IDC and the balance
are living in the community.
CLO counseled:
- 75 Afghans aged between 16 and 59 either in IDC or community houses (in small groups of 3-5
or individually). These migrants came to the Information Centre seeking information.
-4 Iranians aged between 17 and 48.
Topics Discussed
1. Morrison says smugglers ‘ trying things on’
2. Spying row with Indonesia may weaken Australia’s defence.
3. Morrison plays down Indonesia damage.
4. Four Corner’s documentry.
Summary of Comments by Topic/Theme
Topic 1 – Morrison says Smugglers ‘Trying Things On’
Most migrants are fully aware of Australia’s current immigration policies, and the majority are
convinced the days of going by boat are gone. Amended to s47E(d) only
Amended to s47E(d) only
7 of 8
CLO Report - Fortnight Ending 6th December 2013
FOI Page 202 of 881
FOI Document #33
UNCLASSIFIED
Amended to s47E(d) only
Topic 4 – Four Corners Documentary
Very few of the migrants were aware of the documentary but all were sorry for the loss of life
and indicated they are aware of the dangers. They believe now, it is stupid for someone to try to
travel by boat. Previously there was at least the hope that one might be accepted in Australia but
now it is worthless to travel by boat because you will be send to either Nauru or PNG.
s47E(d)
8 of 8
CLO Report - Fortnight Ending 6th December 2013
FOI Page 203 of 881
FOI Document #34
Community Liaison Officer (CLO) Reporting
ACBPS has contractual arrangements in place with the International Organization for
Migration (IOM) to deliver a Community Liaison Officer (CLO) program in Indonesia. The
program has been in place since …
The CLO program conducts grass-roots outreach in target potential irregular immigrant (PII)
communities across Indonesia. A team of CLOs work to promote Australian Government
messaging to PIIs, and provide infromation on uptake of, and reactions to, Australian
Government policy and messaging by PIIs in Indonesia.
Following the Australian Government’s announcement on the Regional Settlement
Arrangement with PNG, … CLOs were deployed to disseminate information regarding the
policy change and its implications for PIIs.
The CLOs are operating across a number of different regions, including Kupang, Jimbaran,
Bogor, Kendari and Medan. Examples of activity include public information sessions,
workshops, and one-on-one couselling sessions.
Below is a summary of the insight and feedback the CLOs have received through their
outreach activities -
General feedback (all PIIs):
• There is a high level of awareness of the new policy among PIIs.
• The new policy is seen as harsh and strong. Amended to s47E(d) only
Amended to s47E(d) only
Amended to s47E(d) only
FOI Page 204 of 881
FOI Document #34
Amended to s47E(d) only
FOI Page 205 of 881
FOI Document #35
Bi-Weekly CLO Report - End Oct 2013
Makassar, South Sulawesi (Dari/Farsi)
Numbers/Demographics of Asylum Seekers in IOM Care in Makassar
There are a total of 825 asylum seekers (559 male and 266 female) receiving IOM
assistance in Makassar, including 361 Afghans, 13 Sri Lankan, 27 Iraqis, 105 Iranians,
and 21 Pakistani, 12 Sudanese, 196 from Myanmar, 55 Somalis, 3 Ethiopians, 14
Bangladeshis, 6 Palestinian and 12 others. There are a total of 94 asylum seekers in
Makassar DC and 680 asylum seekers in community facilities and Immigration Office
under IOM care.
Number/Description of Interviewees
Approximately 40 Afghans and 3 Pakistanis aged 17 to 55 were counseled inside
Makassar IDC. The counseling sessions were held for either small groups of 1-3 persons
or in one-on-one sessions. Approximately 50 Afghans men and women in community
facilities were counseled in small groups of 1-4 asylum seekers. Approximately 20
Iranians aged 18 - 50 were counseled in the common area of their hotel accommodation.
Topics
1.“Indonesia changes tack as asylum-seekers returned”-The Australian, Oct 14, 2013
2.“Boat arrivals face 48-hour turnaround” - The Australian, Sep 24, 2013
3.“Tony Abbott reassures Indonesia he will respect its sovereignty on asylum seeker
issue”- ABC, Oct 1, 2013
Summary of Comments by Topic/Theme
Amended to s47E(d) only
2. No new reaction to this news.
3. Almost all
Amended to s47E(d) only
FOI Page 206 of 881
FOI Document #35
Amended to s47E(d) only
Amended to s47E(d) only
raveling to
Australia by boat are also forcing people who might otherwise make the journey to
reconsider.
Kupang, NTT - Dari/Farsi
Numbers/Demographics
There are a total of 240 asylum seekers (204 male / 36 female) receiving IOM assistance
in Kupang, including 2 Afghans, 1 Iraqi, 167 Iranians, 2 Sudanese, 59 Myanmarese, 5
Somalis, 2 Bangladeshi, 1 Cambodian and 1 of unk nationality. There are 184 asylum
seekers in Kupang DC and 56 asylum seekers in Ina Bo’l Hotel under IOM care.
Number/Description of Interviewees
One Afghan and approximately 50 Iranians aged around 18 to 55 were counseled inside
Kupang DC. The counseling sessions were held for groups of 5 - 15 people as well as
one-on-one sessions. Approximately 30 Iranian men and women living in Ina Bo’l Hotel
in Kupang under IOM care were also counseled. The counseling sessions were in groups
of 2-8 persons.
Topics
1.“Indonesia changes tack as asylum-seekers returned”-The Australian, Oct 14, 2013
2.“Boat arrivals face 48-hour turnaround” - The Australian, Sep 24, 2013
3.“Tony Abbott reassures Indonesia he will respect its sovereignty on asylum seeker
issue”- ABC, Oct 1,2013
Summary of Comments by Topic/Theme
Amended to s47E(d) only
polices
by the government. Amended to s47E(d) only
offshore within 48
FOI Page 207 of 881
FOI Document #35
regulation
Amended s ar
to
e slo
s47E(d) wly t
only aking effect; most asylum seekers realize that the GoA is
determined to stem the flow of maritime arrivals.
Amended to s47E(d) only
Amended to s47E(d) only
Most asylum seekers in Kupang are aware of the new government in Australia, although
Amended
there are restrictions on access to information in the IDC. Those living in the
to InaBo’l
hotel have limited freedom of movement and have access to Internet and mobils47E(d)
only
n as to when the TV is allowed on.
Asylum
ve BBC news from IOM staff in Kupang. The main sources of
nforma
m seekers in DC and Kanim are:
•
m to
Surabaya, East Java – Dari/Farsi
Numbers/Demographics of Asylum seekers in IOM Care in Surabaya
In Surabaya, at the time of this reporting, there are a total of 388 asylum seekers
receiving IOM support, including 230 Afghans, 17 Sri Lankans, 4 Iraqis, 38 Iranians, 20
Bangladeshis, 29 Myanmarese, 26 male and 16 female Somalis and 8 Pakistanis.
Number/Description of Interviewees in Surabaya
CLO counseled a total of 36 refugees and asylum seekers all male aged around 20 – 48
years
consisting of 28 Afghans and 8 Iranians. Counseling took place in community housing
and at
Bangil IDC, with sessions lasting 1 – 1.5 hours.
Topics Discussed
1. Boat arrivals face 48-hour turnaround
2. Tony Abbott reassures Indonesia he will respect its sovereignty on asylum seeker
issue
3. Hopes of finding survivors of asylum-seeker boat sinking off Java
Amended to s47E(d) only
FOI Page 208 of 881
FOI Document #35
Amended to s47E(d) only
CLO Comments
Asylum seekers in the community facility are in regular contact with their
family/fr
es whenever they
wish to. Amended to s47E(d) only
to phones or the
Internet
Some asylum seekers in community facilities read and watch news on
ternet, such
as BBC, CNN, ABC for English language and Hazara Asylum Seekers site
e wh
Amended o d
to on’t
know English cannot access Internet are depending on others and
Al
s47E(d) l a
only
Amen
ded
to
s47E(
d)
only
Medan - North Sumatra (Dari/Farsi)
Numbers/Demographics
There are a total of 1190 asylum seekers receiving IOM support including 265 Afghans,
277 Sri Lankans, 36 Iraqis, 147 Iranians, 247 Myanmarese, 127 Palestinians, 20
Pakistanis, 4 Bangladeshis, 11 Syrians, 16 Sudanese, 26 Somalis, 11 Eritreans as well as
1 from Haiti, PNG and Kuwait respectively. There are 196 asylum seekers in Belawan
Detention Centre and 994 in community facilities under IOM care.
Number/Description of Interviewees
FOI Page 209 of 881
FOI Document #35
Approximately 30 Afghans, aged 18 to 55 year old were counseled (in groups of approx
15 asylum seekers or in one-on-one sessions).
Topic Discussed
1. Indonesia changes tack as Asylum-Seekers return – The Australian October 14 2013
Summary of Comments by Topic/Theme
The general feeling is supportive of Australia’s new policy because it sends a message to
all
asylum seekers that Australia is serious about returning the boats. The majority believe
it’s a
good policy because people can make a clear decision not to go to Australia by boat,
risking their lives and paying people smugglers.
Amended to s47E(d) only
regarding the Australian boat policy in the past two or three months. They believe the
new government is very strict and they will do what they view as being in their national
interest.
Amended to s47E(d) only
FOI Page 210 of 881
FOI Document #35
Medan, North Sumatra - Tamil
Numbers/Demographics of asylum seekers in IOM Care in Medan
As above.
Number/Description of Interviewees
The CLO counseled 8 Sri Lankans (6 men, 2 women) aged 24 – 47 at the DC. One hour to
90 minute sessions for 2-6 were held at the common area of the Detention Centre.
At the community facility, 23 Sri Lankans (15 men, 8 women) aged 26 – 47 were
counseled.
One hour to 90 minute sessions for 2-7 persons were held at the common area and the
asylum seekers’ accommodation.
Topics Discussed
1. Boat arrivals face 48-hour turnaround - The Australian, September 24, 2013
2. Tony Abbott reassures Indonesia he will respect its sovereignty on asylum seeker
issue –
ABC News, September 30, 2013
3. Coalition rules end point of Nauru – The Australian, October 16, 2013
Summary of Comments by Topic/Theme
1. All asylum seekers counseled are aware of the 48 hour turnaround news. They
understand that the current Australian government is using any means possible to deter
asylum seekers from getting on a boat to Australia.
Amended to s47E(d) only
2. The asylum seekers are aware of this news. The asylum seekers also realize that the
number of boat arrivals in Australia has dropped since the policy was implemented.
Most agree that this could be the best solution to stop asylum seekers from getting on a
boat to Australia and note t
Amended h
to at there
s47E(d) has
only been an increase in the number of asylum
seekers surrendering themselves to the authorities in Indonesia. However, some asylum
seekers said, “We
Amended to s47E(d) only
FOI Page 211 of 881
FOI Document #35
Amended to s47E(d) only
s47E(d)
Tanjung Pinang, Kepuluan Riau Province (Tamil)
Specific Locations of Interviews
•
Tanjung Pinang Detention Centre
Numbers/Demographics of Asylum seekers in IOM Care
At the time of this report there are a total of 368 ASYLUM SEEKERS (359 male & nine
female) at the Tanjung Pinang Detention Centre receiving IOM support, including 166
Afghans, 43 Sri Lankans, 47 Myanmarese, 25 Bangladeshis, 25 Pakistanis, 35 Sudanese,
16 Somalis, 7 Iranians, 2 Iraqis, 1 Palestinian and 1 Vietnamese.
Number/Description of Interviewees
CLO counseled 28 Sri Lankans (23 male, five female) aged 18 – 51 at Detention Centre.
Two hour sessions for 5-8 persons were held in the counseling room and family block of
the Detention Centre.
Topics Discussed
1. Boat arrivals face 48-hour turnaround - The Australian, September 24, 2013
2. Hopes of finding survivors of asylum-seeker boat sinking off Java fade – The
Australian,
Sept. 29, 2013
3. Tony Abbott reassures Indonesia he will respect its sovereignty on asylum seeker
issue –
ABC News, September 30, 2013
4.UN slams boat returns as possible rights breach – The Sydney Morning Herald,
October
12, 2013
Summary of Comments by Topic/Theme
1. All asylum seekers are aware of this news. The asylum seekers realize that Tony
Abbott’s priority has been to stop asylum seeker boats from getting into Australia. The
Am
asylum seekers understand this policy may be good as they also questioned, “Apparently
end
there is news where the Immigration Minister Scott Morrison stated that GoA will ed
nt to Nauru in Nauru itself. Is this true?” An 18 year old mal
to e
nd point of Nauru, The Australian, October 16, 2013’ as the
s47
E(d
)
only
FOI Page 212 of 881
FOI Document #35
Amended to s47E(d) only
2. No comments on this topic
Amended to s47E(d) only
CLO Comments
FOI Page 213 of 881
FOI Document #35
s47E(d)
FOI Page 214 of 881
FOI Document #36
Biweekly CLO Report
20 December 2013
Dari speaking CLO Counseling Session
Biweekly CLO Report
Makassar, South Sulawesi
Specific Locations of Interviews
•
IDC Bollangi
•
Community/Residential Facilities
Numbers/Demographics of IMs in Makassar
In Makassar there are a total of 246 migrants, consisting of 108 Afghans, 26 Iranians, eight Iraqis, 76
Myanmarese, nine Bangladeshis, one Kuwaiti, three Somalis, two Sudanese, four Sri Lankans and
nine Pakistanis.
Number/Description of Interviewees
During the reporting period the CLO counseled a total of 50 Afghans aged 18 to 74 who are under
IOM care either in IDC or community houses. CLO counseled them in small groups of three to five
and big groups. During the same period CLO also counseled three Iranian aged around 17 to 30 who
are also under IOM care in Makassar: a minor in the IDC and a couple in comunity housing.
Topics Discussed
1. Morrison says smugglers ‘ trying things on’
2. Spying row with Indonesia may weaken Australia’s defence.
3. Morrison plays down Indonesia damage.
4. Australia tougher than ever on illegal boat arrivals
Summary of Comments by Topic/Theme
1. Most of them are aware of the latest Australian stand on immigration. Amended to
s47E(d) only
Amended to s47E(d) only
FOI Page 215 of 881
FOI Document #36
Amended to s47E(d) only
CLO’s Comments: Insight, Recommendations, Notes re changing perspectives, etc
Despite the campaign by people smugglers, the majority of asylum seekers are fully aware that it
would be worthless to travel by boat. Almost all Afghans who the CLO talked to were well informed
of the latest development regarding Australian immigration policy either by following news, through
friends or relatives in Nauru or PNG, and contacts in Australian detention centers.
Amended to s47E(d) only
FOI Page 216 of 881
FOI Document #36
Dari-Speaking CLO Counseling Session
Biweekly CLO Report
Kupang, NTT
Specific Locations of Interviews
• Kupang Immigration Detention Centre
Numbers/Demographics of IMs in Kupang
In Kupang, at the time of this reporting, there are a total of 177 migrants receiving IOM support,
including one Afghan, two Iraqis, 115 Iranians, 12 Myanmarese, five Somalis, two Sudanese, one
unknown, 38 Myanmar and one Cambodian.
Number/Description of Interviewees in Kupang
In Kupang, the CLO counseled a total of 80 refugees and asylum seekers, male and female, aged 18 –
55 consisting of one Afghan, two Somalis, one Sudanese, two Myanmarese and 74 Iranians.
Counseling took place in Kupang IDC and all sessions lasted for about one to one and a half hours.
Topics Discussed
1. Spying row with Indonesia may weaken Australia's defense
2. Morrison Media release, “Australia tougher than ever on illegal boat arrivals”
Amended to s47E(d) only
FOI Page 217 of 881
FOI Document #36
Amended to s47E(d) only
How often are you in contact with family/friends in home country and/or Australia?
- The RAS have little or no contact with their family/friends in their home country, Australia and
other places because they have little or no phone or internet access.
Pattern in interviewee in Access to Information
Only mainstream (non-cable) Indonesian TV is available and it is not widely understood.
FOI Page 218 of 881
FOI Document #36
Dari-Speaking CLO Counseling Session
Biweekly CLO Report
Surabaya, East Java
Specific Locations of Interviews
• Surabaya Immigration Detention Centre, Bangil
• Community/Residential Housing
Numbers/Demographics of IMs in Surabaya
In Surabaya, at the time of this reporting, there are a total of 256 migrants receiving IOM support,
including 151 Afghans, 15 Sri Lankans, Nine Iraqis 29 Iranians, 27 Myanmar, 12 Somalis, Nine
Pakistanis, one Eritrean, three Syrians .
Number/Description of Interviewees in Surabaya
In Surabaya, CLO counseled a total of 23 refugees and asylum seekers all male aged 19 – 54 consisting
of 18 Afghans and five Iranians. Counseling took place in community housing and Bangil, IDC. All
sessions lasted for about one to one and half hours and were held in IDC and community housing.
Topics Discussed
1. Spying row with Indonesia may weaken Australia's defense
2. Morrison Media release, “Australia tougher than ever on illegal boat arrivals”
Amended to s47E(d) only
Pattern in interviewee in Access to Information
The only mainstream (non-cable) news available in the community is in Bahasa Indonesia which is
not widely understood. Some of the RAS in the community facilities read and watch news on the
Internet, such as BBC, CNN, ABC for English language and Hazara Asylum Seekers site. Those who
don’t know English cannot access internet are depending on others and IOM.
FOI Page 219 of 881
FOI Document #36
All RAS in the community facilities have mobiles phones legitimately obtained. These people are well
informed on the situation in Afghanistan, Iran and Pakistan and other countries such Australia,
Canada, France, Switzerland and Malaysia. Some of them have family and friends living abroad.
In detention they have no open access to phone or internet but some of them have access to phones
now.
FOI Page 220 of 881
FOI Document #36
Dari/Farsi Speaking CLO Counseling Session
Biweekly CLO Report
Pekanbaru, Riau, Sumatra
Specific Locations of Interviews
- Pekanbaru IDC
Numbers/Demographics
At the time of this report there are a total of 292 RAS (200 males and 92 females) receiving IOM
support in Pekanbaru, including 109 Palestinians, 91 Afghans, 48 Iranians, 20 Iraqis, two Sri Lankans,
11 Pakistanis, six Myanmars, three Jordanians and two Bangladeshis.
There are 257 RAS in the Pekanbaru Detention Centre; five RAS are in Kanim (Immigration Office)
Pekanbaru and 30 RAS at the Hotel Satria (Immigration Temporary Accommodation).
Number/Description of Interviewees
During the reporting period, CLO has counseled inside Pekanbaru Immigration Detention Center
approximately 40 Afghans and five Iranians, aged around 17 to 55 years old. The counseling session
took place in one of the IDC’s meeting rooms. The counseling sessions were held in groups of approx.
15 people per group. One-on-one sessions were also provided.
Topic Discussed
1. Australia tougher than ever on illegal boat arrivals. Press Release - Minister for Immigration
and Boarder Protection – 4 December 2013
2. Morison plays down Indonesian damage. Nine News National
– November 22, 2013
Amended to s47E(d) only
FOI Page 221 of 881
FOI Document #36
Amended to s47E(d) only
Patterns in Interviewee Access to Information
RAS in the Pekanbaru IDC have access to the Internet, and English news service on TVs. They receive
limited English newspaper and limited newspapers in their own language.
RAS are free to go outside of IDC during the day and they have contact with local people, their family
and friends over the phone and Internet.
The main sources of information among the RAS in Detention Center are:
- Word of mouth talking to each other and sharing information
- Talking to IOM officers and medical staff
- News stories and New articles from BBC in their own language provided by IOM Officers
- The Global and Jakarta Post Newspaper once a week
- listening to ABC and SBS Radios
FOI Page 222 of 881
FOI Document #36
Dari/Farsi Speaking CLO Counseling Session
Biweekly CLO Report
Medan, North Sumatra
Specific Locations of Interviews
Community/Residential Housing facilities
Numbers/Demographics
At the time of this report there are a total of 1,325 RAS receiving IOM support including 282
Afghans, 289 Sri Lankans, 228 from Myanmar, 164 Palestinians, 173 Iranians, 66 Somalis, 42
Iraqis, 31 Pakistanis, 16 Sudanese, 14 Bangladeshis, 11 Syrians, six Eritreans, two Kuwaiti and one
Haitian.
There are 208 RAS in the Belawan Detention Centre, six RAS in the Kanim (Immigration Office),
30 UAMs in DINSOS accommodation and 1,081 RAS at the community facilities under IOM care.
Number/Description of Interviewees
During the reporting period, CLO has counseled approx. 25 Afghan RAS, aged around 18 to 55
years old. The counseling session took place in the foyer area of accommodations. The counseling
sessions were held in groups of approx. 10 people per group. One-on-one sessions were also
provided.
Topic Discussed
1. Australia tougher than ever on illegal boat arrivals. Press Release Minister for Immigration
and Boarder Protection – 4 December 2013
Summary of Comments by Topic/Theme
1. There is very little new reaction to report.
Amended to s47E(d) only
FOI Page 223 of 881
FOI Document #36
Amended to s47E(d) only
FOI Page 224 of 881
FOI Document #36
Tamil-Speaking CLO Counseling Session
Biweekly CLO Report
Jakarta & Kalideres
Specific Locations of Interviews
Kalideres Detention Centre
Community Living Facilities
Numbers/Demographics of IMs
At the time of this report there are a total of 337 RAS (228 males and 109 females) receiving IOM
support including 83 Afghans, 34 Sri Lankans, 78 Iranians, 65 Myanmarese, 20 Iraqis, 19 Syrians,
21 Palestinians, seven Pakistanis, three Somalis, two Ethiopians, two Sudanese, one Congolese,
one Moroccan and one Rwandan.
There are 92 RAS in the Kalideres Detention Centre and 245 RAS at the community facilities
under IOM care.
Number/Description of Interviewees
CLO counseled eight male Sri Lankan RAS aged 23 – 47 at the Kalideres Detention Centre. A two
hour session for eight people was held at the classroom of the Detention Centre.
At the community facility, 16 Sri Lankan RAS (12men, four women) aged 24 – 43 were counseled.
Two hour sessions for six to nine people were held at the common area of the accommodation.
Topics Discussed
1. Morrison says smugglers ‘trying things on’ – Sky News, November 22, 2013
2. Spying row with Indonesia may weaken Australia’s defence – The Sydney Morning
Herald, November 22, 2013
3. Australia tougher than ever on illegal arrivals – Minister for Immigration and Border
Protection press release, December 4, 2013
Summary of Comments by Topic/Theme
1. Some of the RAS in Jakarta accommodation does not seem to be interested in learning
about what is going on in Australia although they have the facility to access the internet.
Amended to s47E(d) only
FOI Page 225 of 881
FOI Document #36
Amended to s47E(d) only
CLO’s Comments: Insight, Recommendations, Notes re changing perspectives, etc
s47E(d)
FOI Page 226 of 881
FOI Document #36
Tamil-Speaking CLO Counseling Session
Biweekly CLO Report
Jimbaran, Bali
Specific Locations of Interviews
Jimbaran Detention Centre – Bali
Numbers/Demographics of IMs
At the time of this report there are a total of 101 RAS (73 males and 28 females) at the Jimbaran
Detention Centre receiving IOM support including eight Afghans, 34 Sri Lankans, 40 Iranians, 18
Myanmarese and one Tunisian.
Number/Description of Interviewees
CLO counseled 20 Sri Lankan RAS (13 men, seven women) aged 18 – 44 at the Jimbaran
Detention Centre. All sessions which lasted for about two hours for five persons at a time were
held outside the clinic of the Detention Centre.
Topics Discussed
1. Morrison says smugglers ‘trying things on’ – Sky News, November 22, 2013
2. Spying row with Indonesia may weaken Australia’s defence – The Sydney Morning Herald,
November 22, 2013
3. Australia tougher than ever on illegal arrivals – Minister for Immigration and Border
Protection press release, December 4, 2013
Summary of Comments by Topic/Theme
The RAS are not fully aware on what is going on in Australia or other parts of the world. They
managed to grasp only some information from the local news which is in Indonesian. Amended
to s47E(d)
only
Amended to s47E(d) only
FOI Page 227 of 881
FOI Document #36
Amended to s47E(d) only
CLO’s Comments: Insight, Recommendations, Notes re changing perspectives, etc
s47E(d)
Patterns in Interviewee Access to Information
The only mainstream news available here on TV is in Bahasa Indonesia, which is not widely
understood, and there is no computer or internet access. A parallel IOM project used to provide
copies of stories appearing on BBC’s Tamil-language service websites but has been halted by the
Immigration Chief of Detention Centre for the time being. All future materials will be translated
into Bahasa Indonesia and reviewed prior to being provided to detainees.
The RAS in the Detention Centre have mobile phones obtained legitimately but are kept with the
immigration officers, hence, they are not able to keep in contact with anyone.
FOI Page 228 of 881
FOI Document #36
Tamil-Speaking CLO Counseling Session
Biweekly CLO Report
Medan, North Sumatra
Specific Locations of Interviews
• Belawan Detention Centre
• Community Living Facilities
Numbers/Demographics of IMs
At the time of this report there are a total of 1,325 RAS receiving IOM support including 282
Afghans, 289 Sri Lankans, 228 Myanmarese, 164 Palestinians, 173 Iranians, 42 Iraqis, 31
Pakistanis, 11 Syrians, 66 Somalis, six Eritreans, 16 Sudanese, 14 Bangladeshis, two Kuwaiti and
one Haitian.
There are 208 RAS in the Belawan Detention Centre, six RAS at the Immigration Polonia and
1,111 RAS at the community facilities under IOM care which includes 888 male RAS and 437
female RAS.
Number/Description of Interviewees
CLO counseled 10 males aged 24 – 38 at the Detention Centre. A two-hour session for 10 people
was held at the common area of the Detention Centre.
At the community facility, 12 Sri Lankans (seven men, five women) aged 32 – 55 were counseled.
One hour sessions for four to eight people were held at the common area and the RAS’ homes at
the accommodation.
Topics Discussed
1. Morrison says smugglers ‘trying things on’ – Sky News, November 22, 2013
2. Spying row with Indonesia may weaken Australia’s defence – The Sydney Morning Herald,
November 22, 2013
3. Australia tougher than ever on illegal arrivals – Minister for Immigration and Border
Protection press release, December 4, 2013
Summary of Comments by Topic/Theme
1. The RAS are aware of what has happened in the past especially during the monsoon season.
Amended to s47E(d) only
FOI Page 229 of 881
FOI Document #36
Amended to s47E(d) only
CLO’s Comments: Insight, Recommendations, Notes re changing perspectives, etc
s47E(d)
FOI Page 230 of 881
FOI Document #37
Biweekly CLO Report
Fortnight ending 22 November 2013
Medan (Dari/Farsi)
Locations/Numbers & Demographics
Interviews were held at Community Facilities. At the time of reporting there are a total of 1,330 persons receiving
IOM support including 215 persons in the Belawan Detention Centre and 1115 persons in community facilities.
At the time of reporting there are 1,330 persons receiving IOM support including 310 Afghans, 278 Sri Lankans,
271 Myanmars, 139 Palestinians, 160 Iranians, 41 Iraqis, 30 Pakistanis, 11 Syrians, 60 Somalis, 6 Eritreans, 16
Sudanese, 6 Bangladeshis, 1 Kuwaiti and 1 Haitian.
Number/Description of Interviewees
During the reporting period, CLO counseled approx. 25 Afghans and 8 Iranians, aged between 17 - 55 years old.
The counseling sessions took place in the reception area of Sentabi Accommodation, in the entrance area of
Lestary Accommodation and in the front porch of Cendana Accommodation. The counseling sessions were held in
groups of approx. 15 people per group. One-on-one sessions were also provided.
Topic Discussed
1. Island backlog as Manus fil s up.
The Australian – October 24, 2013
Police on hand on Christmas Island as arrival learn fate.
The Australian – October 23, 2013
2. Australian Immigration minister video.
Summary of Comments
The general feeling from Hotel Santabi Community Facility (where approx. 60 Iranian families are housed) is that
the people who have already gone by boat and have seen the danger and consequences wil never go by boat
again. Most of the Iranians agree that the new Australian immigration policy is effective at saving lives and halting
the business of people smugglers. Amended to s47E(d) only
Amended to s47E(d) only
1
FOI Page 231 of 881
FOI Document #37
Most of the group believe that Farsi speaking asylum seekers know about the new Australian immigration policy,.
Amended to s47E(d) only
The Afghan and Iranian populations have access to media reporting, social media and radio talk shows etc. This wil
keep them informed about Australian immigration policy. Most are wel informed about their decisions to go by
boat or stay in Indonesia to go legal y.
Amended to s47E(d) only
2
FOI Page 232 of 881
FOI Document #37
Medan, North Sumatra (Tamil)
Location/ Numbers & Demographics
Interviews were conducted at Belawan Detention Centre and in Community Living Facilities. There are 215 persons
in the Belawan Detention Centre and 1115 persons at the community facilities under IOM care which includes 904
males and 426 females.
At the time of reporting there are 1,330 persons receiving IOM support including 310 Afghans, 278 Sri Lankans,
271 Myanmars, 139 Palestinians, 160 Iranians, 41 Iraqis, 30 Pakistanis, 11 Syrians, 60 Somalis, 6 Eritreans, 16
Sudanese, 6 Bangladeshis, 1 Kuwaiti and 1 Haitian.
Number/Description of Interviewees
CLO counseled 5 male Sri Lankans aged 22 – 41 at the Detention Centre. One hour to 90 minute sessions for five
people were held at the common area of the Detention Centre. At the community facility, 19 Sri Lankans (13 men,
six women) aged 18 – 54 were counseled. One hour to 90 minute sessions for 2-6 people were held at the common
area and at the accommodation.
Topics Discussed
1. Indonesia refuses to take asylum seekers – Sky News, November 9, 2013
2. Refugee exchange idea sounds like a positive policy – The Australian, November 14, 2013
Amended to s47E(d) only
FOI Page 233 of 881
FOI Document #37
Amended to s47E(d) only
s47E(d)
4
FOI Page 234 of 881
FOI Document #38
Bi-weekly CLO Report
End Fortnight – 8th November 2013
Makassar, South Sulawesi (Dari/Farsi)
Locations of Interviews
Community Housing:
- Wisma Permata
- Wisma Mahkota
Numbers/Demographics
At the time of reporting, there were 825 asylum seekers (559 male / 266 female) receiving IOM care in
Makassar, including 361 Afghans, 13 Sri Lankans, 27 Iraqis, 105 Iranians, 21 Pakistanis, 12 Sudanese, 196
Myanmarese, 55 Somalis, 3 Ethiopians, 14 Bangladeshis, 6 Palestinian and 12 others. Approximately 20
Afghan men and women were counseled in groups of 1- 4, in the common area of their residence. Two
Iranians were counseled in the common area of their hotel.
Topics Discussed
1.Video message of Scott Morrison, Immigration Minister
2.IMs face indefinite stay on Christmas Island
Summary of Comments by Topic/Theme
Topic 1
The group feels the vast majority of asylum seekers know about the new policies and the prospect of
people being sent to offshore processing centers. Amended to s47E(d) only
Topic 2
Almost all asylum seekers here know about the announcement made to asylum seekers on Christmas
Island (CI). Amended to s47E(d) only
1
FOI Page 235 of 881
FOI Document #38
Surabaya, East Java (Dari)
Specific Locations of Interviews
-Surabaya Immigration Detention Centre, Bangil, Surabaya Community Housing.
Numbers/Demographics
At the time of reporting, there were 330 migrants receiving IOM support, including 202 Afghans, 19 Sri
Lankans, 6 Iraqis, 37 Iranians, 9 Bangladeshis, 29 Myanmarese, 19 Somalis and 9 Pakistanis. The CLO
counseled 33 refugees & asylum seekers (males aged 20-48) including 25 Afghans and 8 Iranians.
Topics Discussed
1."IMs Face Indefinite Stay on Christmas Island".
2. Video message of Immigration Minister Scott Morrison Immigration Minister
Amended to s47E(d) only
2
FOI Page 236 of 881
FOI Document #38
Tanjung Pinang – Kepulauan Riau (Dari/Farsi)
Numbers/Demographics
At the time of reporting there were 382 asylum seekers in the IDC, including 180 Afghans, 43 Sri Lankans, 47
Myanmarese, 25 Pakistanis, 25 Bangladeshis, 35 Sudanese, 16 Somalis, 7 Iranians, 1 Palestinians, 2 Iraqis and
1 Vietnamese. Note, the number of Afghans has increased significantly causing overcrowding in the IDC.
Number/Description of Interviewees
The CLO counseled 50 Afghans and 5 Iranians (aged 17 - 55 years) in an IDC meeting room. Groups of ten and
one-on-one sessions were provided.
Topic Discussed
1. Island backlog as Manus fills up.
The Australian – October 24, 2013
2. Police on hand on Christmas Island as arrival learn fate.
The Australian – October 23, 2013
3. Video message of Mr. Scott Morrison Immigration Minister
Summary of Comments by Topic/Theme
Topic 1 & Topic 2
The majority of Afghans are aware the irregular route to Australia is closed. Amended to s47E(d) only
Amended to s47E(d) only
3
FOI Page 237 of 881
FOI Document #39
IOM CLO Reporting - 31 July 2013
KUPANG (Dari)
Approximately 25 Iranians, 6 Somalis and 5 Myanmarese (all males) were counseled inside IDC in
Kupang.
- All were aware of the new GoA policy. Amended to s47E(d) only
Amended to s47E(d) only
BOGOR (Dari)
The CLO counseled 13 Afghans, 1 Pakistani and 5 Iranians males (not under IOM care) and 2 female
Afghans (under IOM care). In general PI s are now familiar with the new policy.
Amended to s47E(d) only
JIMBARAN (Tamil)
The CLO counseled 10 male & female aged 28 – 44 at the IDC.
- All PI s from this group are aware of this news as the fact sheets on this policy were
disseminated to them last week.
Amended to s47E(d) only
FOI Page 238 of 881
FOI Document #39
- The PI s find this policy good for the Australian government to stop the illegal maritime arrivals
but it may not be good for the asylum seekers.
Amended to s47E(d) only
- No new questions were raised by this group.
FOI Page 239 of 881
Integrated Report on People Smuggling to
Australia
No. 1310175
Qualitative and Quantitative Report
s47F
FOI Page 354 of 881
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