The cost of welcoming refugees

For broadcast on 2CH Sydney, 28 July 2013.

In the wake of the Prime Minister’s announcement of a new immigration policy forcing all asylum seekers who arrive by boat to be detained on a small island off the north coast of Papua New Guinea, young Australian blogger Christine Mead has cautioned Christians to count the cost of opposing the policy.

She asks what compassionate Australians are willing to give up in order to welcome asylum seekers to our community, and into our homes.

Would it mean an increase in taxes? Would it mean giving my time to assisting someone with their grocery shopping? Would it simply mean that I would patiently attempt to build relationships with people who speak a different language and who have a different way of life to mine?

Yes, all Australians – especially Christians – should welcome genuine refugees. But it’s important to talk about what that will look like, and be prepared to follow up words with actions.

I’m Rod Benson for the NSW Council of Churches.