HMAS Wollongong intercepts a vessel north of West Islet near Ashmore Island

27 April 2010

HMAS Wollongong, crewed by Armidale Class Patrol Boat Crew Ardent One, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, intercepted the vessel during the afternoon on 26 April north of West Islet near Ashmore Island.

Initial indications suggest 41 passengers and four crew are on board the vessel.

The group will be transferred to Christmas Island where they will undergo security, identity and health checks and their reasons for travel will be established.

While their nationality is yet to be confirmed, if these asylum seekers are Sri Lankans or Afghans, their claims will not be considered for at least three and six months respectively, under a processing suspension introduced by the Government on 9 April 2010.

This suspension was introduced because of the evolving circumstances in these two countries. The Australian Government believes that asylum seekers should only be granted the right to live in Australia if they are genuinely in need of protection.

People smuggling is not just an issue for Australia – it is a global and regional problem. The commitment of our neighbours, through bilateral cooperation and the Bali Process on People Smuggling, Trafficking in Persons and Related Transnational Crime, is critical to addressing this most serious issue.

The Australian Government remains vigilant and committed to protecting Australia’s borders. Today’s successful interception by Border Protection Command, coupled with changes to the immigration processing system, continues to demonstrate this commitment and the effectiveness of the proactive response program in place.