IMMIGRATION

At least 60% of our work at SBS is with abused migrant women who have insecure immigration status. These women are particularly vulnerable and fearful of accessing authorities. Low expectations, lack of knowledge or negative experiences of state authorities and fear of becoming destitute or of being deported deter many from reporting their experiences and obtaining protection. Many of our immigration campaigns highlight the ways in which immigration laws and policies trap women in abuse: a problem that has been compounded by successive government policies aimed at creating a ‘hostile immigration environment.

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AND IMMIGRATION ENFORCEMENT