Iraqi asylum seekers on Nauru granted refugee status

A young asylum seeker from Iraq on Nauru. File picture / Kenny Rodger

CANBERRA - A total of 27 Iraqi asylum seekers being detained on the Pacific island of Nauru were today granted refugee status, with most to be offered residency in Australia.

Immigration Minister Amanda Vanstone said 16 of the 27 refugees would be offered resettlement in Australia and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees would look to resettle the remaining 11.

The Immigration Department reassessed the cases of 41 Iraqis being held on Nauru.

Senator Vanstone said 14 people were found not to be refugees, decisions on a another two were under consideration and four did not want their cases reassessed by Australia.

She said the 27 found to be refugees would continue to receive accommodation, food, clothing and medical care while arrangements were made to resettle them.

But Senator Vanstone said those who weren't refugees should go home.

"Those people who have again been confirmed as non-refugees should now accept the outcome and return to their home country as quickly as possible," Senator Vanstone said.

"Australia has made it clear all along that it will take its fair share of refugees needing resettlement from the offshore processing centres.

"The Iraqis in Australia's caseload now being approved as refugees will be offered resettlement in Australia.

"The outcome of the reassessment reflects the government's commitment to assess the effect of changing circumstances on the protection claims of individuals."

- AAP