During 2017, the Australian Government sought to pass legislation that would have made it much more difficult for people to become citizens by, among other measures, imposing a much more demanding English language test than currently applies.

The Forum of Australian Services for Survivors of Torture and Trauma (FASSTT)  made a submission strongly opposing the Government’s proposals. Many other individuals, organisations and advocacy agencies also made submissions.

The Government was unable to get sufficient support for the proposed law and it lapsed. It has been indicated that the Government plans an additional attempt to pass the legislation in a modified capacity later this year.

In February 2018, Senator Pauline Hanson introduced a version of the proposed law into the parliament. It proposes the same tough English language test as the government in 2017, and (a new element) that people would have to wait for eight years before being eligible for citizenship, double the current requirement.

FASSTT agencies members have made a submission opposing this Bill.