BUDGET 2002 MEDIA STATEMENTS – FACTUAL INFORMATION 
Portfolio:  Immigration  
Initiative:  Community-Based Accommodation for Border Refugee Status 
Claimants 
Funding Details: Please include GST where applicable. 
$million (GST inclusive where 
2002/03 
2003/04 
2004/05 
2005/06 
applicable) 
Operating - new 
0.601 
0.601 
0.601 
0.601 
                 - redistributed
Capital      - new
- redistributed
TOTAL
0.601 
0.601 
0.601 
0.601
What is the initiative designed to do? 
Refugee status claimants who claim asylum at the border of New Zealand and who 
cannot positively prove their identity are currently not granted a permit, but are held at 
the Mangere Refugee Reception Centre (MRRC), or, in a few cases, in a correctional 
facility.  The Trans-National Organised Crime Bill, currently before Parliament, seeks to 
have such people able to be released from the MRRC on condition that they reside at a 
particular address, such as the Auckland Refugee Council’s hostel.  This initiative will 
cover the costs associated with their accommodation in the community. 
How will the money be spent? 
The money allows for up to 180 people per year to be accommodated in the community 
and to receive health checks. 
Who will benefit? 
This initiative will assist in the resettlement of those people found to have genuine 
cases for refugee status.  It will assist New Zealand as it will enable the Department of 
Labour (NZIS) to remove people found not to be refugees in a relatively straightforward 
manner. 
Does this link to Budget priorities? 
No, but by assisting in maintaining New 
Zealand’s security while upholding 
New Zealand‘s international obligations, it contributes to two key Government goals: 
 Restore Trust in Government and Provide Strong Social Services;  and
 Reduce Inequalities in Health, Education, Employment and Housing.

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