Media Release

Tuesday, 20 November 2001

The Australian Institute of International Affairs (SA Branch) is holding a free public forum at Adelaide University this Saturday to discuss the issues surrounding asylum seekers trying to gain entry into Australia.

The forum, called "Desperately Seeking Asylum", will be held at 10.00am on Saturday, November 24 in Adelaide University's Council Room.

Speakers include Dr Don McMaster, Visiting Fellow with the University's Politics Department and author of Asylum Seekers: Australia's Response to Refugees. His topic is: "Desperate Times: Australia's Response to Asylum Seekers"

Other speakers are Kevin Liston, Director of the Australian Refugee Association Inc, and Peter Mares, presenter of Asia-Pacific on Radio National and author of Borderline: Australia's Treatment of Refugees and Asylum Seekers. Peter's topic is: "Putting Forward a Humane Alternative to the current policy on Asylum Seekers".

The speakers will be followed by a panel discussion and opportunities for questions from the public.

Where:
Adelaide University Council Room
Level 7, Wills Building, Hughes Plaza
North Terrace Campus, Adelaide University

When:
10.00am Saturday, November 24

Public enquiries about the forum should be directed to Rosemary McKay: (08) 8302 0757