Comparing Australian Refugee-Related Health Policies With the World Health Organization's Framework for Improving Refugee Integration and Health Outcomes Publisher



Mohammadi M ; Bahmanziari N ; Etemadi M ; Hinchcliff R ; Chu C
Source: Australian Journal of Social Issues Published:2025

Abstract

By the end of 2024, disasters had displaced 120 million people globally, with refugees among the most vulnerable populations experiencing notable health challenges. This study reviewed Australia's refugee health policies, given its important role in the UN refugee settlement program, and compared them with WHO guidelines to identify gaps and propose evidence-informed improvements. Twelve national and jurisdictional policy documents published by January 2024 were analysed using thematic analysis in MAXQDA. Themes were identified qualitatively and then quantified through frequency counts and compared with the WHO guideline. This allowed both a thematic interpretation and a descriptive assessment of policy alignment. Results revealed varying levels of alignment with WHO priorities across jurisdictions. New South Wales showed the highest concordance (81%), while the Australian Capital Territory had the lowest (48%). Most policies emphasized continuity and quality of care (63%) and the integration of refugee health advocacy into broader policies (25%). However, limited attention was given to social determinants of health, health monitoring systems and health itself. Overall, Australia's refugee health policies show a general alignment with the WHO guidelines, while addressing gaps in stigma reduction, monitoring frameworks and policy fragmentation. Addressing these gaps is essential to achieving equitable healthcare and enhancing refugee wellbeing. © 2025 Elsevier B.V., All rights reserved.