Many people want to see an end to lengthy mandatory detention for asylum seekers and refugees, but aren't sure what alternative policies could look like. The people languishing in transit countries face significant hardship and many have no access to education for their children, adequate healthcare or legal employment. Missing from the debate seems to be substantial discussion about how to develop sustainable processes that are not focused on punishment or deterrence.

Amnesty NSW Refugee Network is hosting an expert speakers panel on this very topic, to discuss issues such as what a 'regional solution' could look like. We will bring together experts in the field to highlight current areas of research, and draw out suggestions for how Australia could change its current policies, while respecting international law and human rights concerns.

The discussion will be moderated by Sarah Whyte, Immigration correspondent, Fairfax Media.

The panel speakers include:

• Graham Thom, Refugee Coordinator, Amnesty International Australia
• Madeline Gleeson, Kaldor Centre for International Refugee Law
• Sarah Dale, Refugee Advice and Casework Service
• Daniel Ghezelbash, Macquarie Law School

We hope that everyone will go away equipped with new ideas to advocate for policy change!

When and where?: Monday 18 May 2015, 6.30pm - 8.30pm, at the Lyceum Theatre, Wesley Conference Centre, 220 Pitt St Sydney