The federal government could face some very expensive lawsuits now that the Federal Court can hear refugees’ negligence claims.
Lawyers and refugee advocates are hailing a recent High Court decision as a victory for asylum seekers after it unanimously held that the Federal Court could hear negligence claims brought by people in offshore detention.
The decision could expose the government to a string of expensive lawsuits and make it easier to evacuate sick refugees to Australia for treatment.
“This case represents a win for asylum seekers,” Australian Lawyers Alliance human rights spokesman Greg Barns SC told Crikey.
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