Media release

ACCR to file shareholder resolution calling on Qantas to end deportations to danger

Commenting on the meeting between Australasian Centre for Corporate Responsibility (ACCR), Refugee Advice and Casework Service and Qantas executives today, Brynn O’Brien, Executive Director, ACCR said:

“Qantas actively listened to our concerns about their involvement in the Australian government’s toxic refugee policies through their provision of services relating to deportation. We recommended that they commit to ending deportation activity, and indicated that we are recruiting Qantas shareholders to file a resolution on this topic to be heard at this year’s AGM.

“Qantas have indicated that they rely on the Australian Government to make decisions relating to deportations. This is a patently inadequate method of risk management. The Australian government cannot be relied upon to ensure compliance with human rights standards, given they routinely and flagrantly violate them.

Click here for the expert statement signed by a number of business, human rights and union groups and individuals, which notes that ‘airlines should engage a heightened due diligence process’ to ensure they do not contribute to human rights abuse by facilitating deportations, removals and transfers. Signatories to the statement include Janet Holmes à Court, barrister Jennifer Robinson, Thomas Keneally AO and Professor Gillian Triggs.

END

CONTACT

Brynn O’Brien | ACCR | +61 423 951 316

Brami Jegan | Holdfast | + 61 448 276 945

About us

Australasian Centre for Corporate Responsibility is a philanthropically-funded NGO that engages with ASX-listed companies on their social and environmental performance, including in relation to human rights issues in their operations, products and services.