Refugee advocates have called for an end to the indefinite detention of refugees in Papua New Guinea and Nauru during a rally on Monday.
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Members of the Ballarat Rural Australians for Refugees group and supporters gathered with masks and social distancing measures in place.
Around 13 people split into two groups outside federal MP Catherine King's office and on Sturt Street from 11am.
They held signs reading 'justice for refugees', 'let them stay', 'seven years too long' and 'we welcome refugees'.
The date marked seven years of detention for refugees who were sent to centres on Manus Island and Nauru.
Prime Minister Kevin Rudd made a statement on the July 19, 2013 that anybody who came by boat would never settle in Australia.
Rural Australians for Refugees is advocating for all refugees in Papua New Guinea and Nauru to be brought to Australia and given permanent residency.
Ballarat group member Margaret O'Donnell said many drivers' passing by acknowledged the protesters on Monday.
She said she hoped the public rally helped create awareness of the issue.
"I think there is so much ignorance around of what is really happening," Ms O'Donnell said.
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Rochelle Kirkham
Rochelle covers court and has a particular interest in social issues including homelessness, food security and family violence.
Rochelle covers court and has a particular interest in social issues including homelessness, food security and family violence.
