And they really did need attention. There was a gap in the market, which is a horrendous way to put it, but for onshore detention, so that’s where HR4A came in. It just grew organically from Alison’s  kitchen table to where it is now, with it servicing all detention centres in Australia.

HR4All represents refugees in Christmas Island, Perth, Yongah Hill, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Sydney, and they’re supported through private donations and court costs. When they win, the government has to pay their court costs. “We’re strange in the way we do it, but because we’re small and focused on liberty and ending indefinite detention, these very clear objectives and aims are the reason why we’re able to be so effective.”

Alison Battisson and her team focus on long term detained and complex-case refugees and stateless people. Of particular interest to the firm are extremely vulnerable detained persons, including members of the LGBTIQA+ community, the disabled, and First Nations people whose complicated or unrecognised citizenship put them at risk of being deported.

In addition to the onshore work, Alison also played a crucial role in assisting female athletes, their families and others escape Kabul, Afghanistan in August 2021. Over 110 people were airlifted to safety as a result. Alison continues to work to bring Afghan women at risk to safety.

Come to our lunch, meet like minded people, have your questions answered and support the work of Blue Mountains Support Group.

Also a silent auction of works of art with the very entertaining Philip Feinstein.

Sunday 20 October, start 12.00 for 12.30.

Tickets: $65