HumanTrafficking.org | Australia Government Agency: Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC)

A web resource for combating human trafficking

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Australia

Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC)

Address

Department of Immigration and Citizenship
PO Box 25
Belconnen ACT 2616
Australia

Contact Information

If calling from Australia:

Tel: 02 6264 1111
Fax: 02 6225 6970

If calling from overseas:

Tel: +61 2 6264 1111
Fax: +61 2 6225 6970

Website

http://www.immi.gov.au/index.htm

Alternate Address

National Office:
6 Chan Street
Belconnen ACT 2617
Australia

Activities

The Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) has responsibilities for several important components of Australia’s efforts to combat trafficking in persons:

Visa regime:
When a potential victim is identified by the Australian Federal Police (AFP), State/Territory Police, or by DIAC, the person may be granted a Bridging Visa F. The visa lasts for up to 30 days. During this time, the victim receives intensive victim support. The visa is designed to allow enough time and support for the victim to consider the available options, and receive counseling and other support. It also allows law enforcement enough time to make further investigations and consider whether a case can be mounted against alleged traffickers.

If the victim is willing and able to assist law enforcement agencies, they will be eligible for a Criminal Justice Stay Visa (CJSV). Trafficking victims or witnesses who receive this visa are also entitled to ongoing victim support, provided by a case manager from a contracted community provider. This visa, and the attached support, lasts as long as the holder is required for the investigation and any prosecution, and is willing to provide that assistance.

Finally, victims who are deemed at risk of harm if they return to their home country as a result of their significant contribution to an investigation or prosecution of people trafficking offenders may be eligible for a Witness Protection (Trafficking) visa, as long as they are not the subject of any related prosecution.

Liaison with regional partner countries in the fight against trafficking:
The Australian Government has placed a new Senior Migration Officer (Compliance) in Australia’s Embassy in Bangkok to focus exclusively on people trafficking in the South East Asian region. Thailand is a source country for prostitutes and victims of people trafficking and is also a focal point for regional anti-trafficking activity. The Senior Migration Officer works closely with the Australian Federal Police in Thailand.

Close co-operation with Australian Federal Police:
DIAC and the AFP work very closely together and continue to refine protocols and interview procedures to improve the collection and exchange of information and evidence.