End the Waiting: A Call to Compassion and Justice for Asylum Seekers
For over a decade, thousands of people seeking asylum in Australia have been trapped in a broken system — living in limbo, renewing short-term visas every few months, separated from loved ones, and denied the security of work, study, and family reunification.
Now, Christian communities across the country are raising their voices together to say: enough is enough. The “End the Waiting” campaign, launched by Common Grace, the National Council of Churches in Australia (NCCA) and the Australian Churches Refugee Task Force, is calling on the Federal Government to fix the injustices left behind by the now-abolished Fast Track system.
From August to November 2025, Churches and faith communities are hosting peaceful prayer vigils outside MPs’ offices, giving public witness to the Gospel call to welcome the stranger and uphold the dignity of all.
The campaign is calling for three key actions from the government:
- A clear pathway to permanency for those stuck in the Fast Track process
- Work rights for all people seeking asylum
- A single, stable bridging visa until claims are resolved
These are simple, achievable changes that do not require new laws. The Immigration Minister already has the power to act. This is a matter of political will.
These refugees have lived among us for over a decade. They are our neighbours, friends, and faith community members. They’ve built lives here. Australia is already their home.
To learn more or find a vigil near you, visit www.endthewaiting.com