The Centre for Asylum Seekers, Refugees and Detainees
Recognised for providing frontline assistance to refugees and people seeking asylum, while advocating for fairer policies.
About this finalist
- Year: 2026
- Level: Finalist
- Award category: Human Rights Medal
About the 2026 nomination
The Centre for Asylum Seekers, Refugees and Detainees (CARAD) is a Western Australian not-for-profit organisation and a leader in welfare and advocacy for people seeking humanitarian protection. Since 2000, CARAD has assisted more than 5,000 people seeking asylum and refugees, including those in immigration detention, working towards a welcoming Australia where people can rebuild their lives and are treated with compassion and respect.
People seeking asylum often live on temporary bridging visas for extended periods while awaiting a decision on their refugee status. Many are ineligible for Centrelink, and around one third of CARAD's clients have no right to work. Many cannot afford food, housing or healthcare. CARAD is often described as ‘the service provider of last resort’ in WA as no other organisation provides welfare and case work support without time limitations.
CARAD delivers 3 programs:
- Client Services: casework, personal advocacy, healthcare, housing, material aid, referrals and immigration detention visits.
- CARAD Pantry: food and hygiene items for individuals and families in need.
- Opening Doors: support with literacy, education, employment, conversational English and social inclusion.
CARAD's advocacy challenges the policies that create these rights violations in the first place.
About the Human Rights Awards
The Australian Human Rights Awards is an inspirational showcase of the best in all of us. The Awards honour and celebrate diverse human rights heroes and significant achievements in protecting and promoting human rights in Australia.