I want to respond to the assertions made in the Editorial, “ >Perils abroad ” (March 20, 2015), regarding law and order in Australia, particularly relating to the tragic death of Prabha Arun Kumar. Our thoughts are with Ms. Kumar’s family, who have suffered a terrible loss. However, this shocking crime should not be used to recycle outdated and unsubstantiated claims about racism and the prevalence of racial attacks in Australia.
We strongly reject the assertion that Australia has done anything other than take a committed and robust approach to matters of law and order. The Australian government and State and Territory authorities place great importance on the safety and security of everyone who resides in Australia.
In this instance, the NSW Premier, Mike Baird, immediately formed a task force to investigate the attack and committed to ensure every available resource would be made available. Our Foreign Minister Julie Bishop spoke to the Indian External Affairs Minister, Sushma Swaraj, at the earliest opportunity to assure her of Australia’s commitment to dealing with this matter. We are treating this crime in the same way we do others: with the utmost seriousness. In this, and all other instances, be in no doubt that criminal behaviour is unacceptable in Australian society. Authorities at all levels of the Australian government are working together to bring perpetrators to justice, respond to crimes and protect everyone in the community.
The Indian community is a valued part of contemporary Australia. India remains our largest source of skilled migrants, and an increasing number of Indian students are choosing to come to Australia, drawn by our world-class, higher education system. Australia-India ties continue to go from strength to strength, and we are confident this trend will continue in the future.
Bernard Philip,
Acting High Commissioner,
Australian High Commission,
New Delhi
