Children under Refugee Visa: Unaccompanied Humanitarian Minors (UHM) Program
The Unaccompanied Humanitarian Minors (UHM) Program provides essential accommodation and support services for children entering Australia on a Refugee or Humanitarian visa without a parent or legal guardian. This program is administered by the Department of Home Affairs.
What are the Eligibility Criteria for the Unaccompanied Humanitarian Minors (UHM) Program?
Children may be eligible for the UHM Program if they meet specific criteria, including:
Being under the guardianship of the Minister as per the Immigration (Guardianship of Children) Act 1946 (IGOC Act).
Living in Australia under the care of a relative aged over 21 years old.
Other children may be considered on a case-by-case basis.
The Minister can delegate guardianship responsibilities to certain Commonwealth, state, and territory government officers, known as IGOC delegates.
How are the UHM Program Services be delivered?
UHM Program services are provided through:
Contracted service providers act as custodians for the child.
State and Territory Child Welfare Authorities (STCWAs), with officers acting as IGOC delegates.
Services may also include Case Management Only for specific situations.
What Types of Services Offered?
Custodial Care: Children may be referred to a contracted service provider who will take on custodial responsibilities.
IGOC Delegation: An officer from the STCWA may serve as the IGOC delegate for the minor.
Case Management: Some children may receive case management services from either a contracted provider or an STCWA officer.
Any Access to Other Government Services?
Upon arrival in Australia, children participating in the UHM Program are generally eligible for additional support under the Humanitarian Settlement Program (HSP). Key aspects include:
Most clients typically receive HSP support for 6 to 18 months.
Children with complex needs may qualify for Specialised and Intensive Services for up to 5 years following their arrival or onshore visa grant.
Furthermore, children may also access Commonwealth, state/territory, and local benefit payments through Centrelink, provided they meet the relevant eligibility criteria.
How Can Agape Henry Crux Help You?
We encourage you to seek professional assistance for tailored advice and creative strategies. Feel free to contact us at any time. You can book a Migration Planning Session with one of our Accredited Specialists in Immigration Law and team of immigration lawyers to seek professional advice by calling +612 8310 5230 or email us to book a time at info@ahclawyers.com.
We speak fluent English, Mandarin, Cantonese and Malay. If these aren’t your language, we can also help you arrange an interpreter.
This article/presentation (“publication”) does not deal extensively with important topics or changes in law and is not intended to be relied upon as a substitute for legal or other advice that may be relevant to the reader's specific circumstances. If you find this publication of interest and would like to know more or wish to obtain legal advice relevant to your circumstances, please contact our office.
