History of Immigration and Refugee Law and Policy

A timeline detailing the Australian Government's treatment of immigration, specifically regarding non-white minorities. The timeline documents most of the key historic moments that showcase a largely consistent attitude and rhetoric across governments. I begin this time period in 1788, with the migration of white Australians themselves (declaring the land 'terra nullius' despite the Indigenous population), and I end the timeline at the finish of 2013 after the introduction of Operation Sovereign Borders.

The timeline's purpose is to present an understanding of how Australian laws and policies on this matter have changed historically. The issue is a contemporary matter and changes happen daily. I have chosen to end it at 2013 as the timeline is meant as a reflection of history.

To navigate the timeline, first click on the enlarge button to make it full screen. Use your left and right arrow keys to move through the time periods. The up and down arrow keys can be used shift the contents accordingly to view points, or you can click and drag the screen around. Click on the boxes to view details about the events. Some events include videos relevant to the information. The purple tabs indicate international attention, reports, or conventions, and the pink tabs indicate specific legislation.