Immigration minister touts a ‘fast-paced and vibrant country with a stable economy ’ in film to be shown to asylum seekers in detention centre

The immigration minister, Peter Dutton, has pleaded with refugees on Nauru to take up a settlement package to Cambodia, encouraging them to call a “Cambodia settlement hotline” in a video message obtained by Guardian Australia.



In the video, which was due to be shown to asylum seekers at the Nauru detention centre on Wednesday afternoon, the minister touts Cambodia’s “wealth of opportunities” and diversity.

On Wednesday Guardian Australia reported that Australian immigration officials had approached asylum seekers in the Nauru detention centre about resettlement in Cambodia, apparently in contravention of the agreement between the two countries.

Their memorandum of understanding specifies that only people whose claim for refugee status has been approved would be eligible for the transfer.

Standing beside an Australian flag in his office for the video, Dutton says a settlement package offered to those on the first flight – including health, education and accommodation costs – may not be available to those who subsequently accept a transfer.

“You will know by now that plans are well under way for the first group of refugees to travel and settle in Cambodia,” he says. “Cambodian settlement presents a great opportunity for refugees to move forward and begin the next phase of their lives in a country that is free from persecution.

“Cambodia provides a wealth of opportunity for new settlers. It is a fast-paced and vibrant country with a stable economy and varied employment opportunities. It is a diverse nation with a blend of many nationalities, cultures and religions.”

The immigration department has set up a hotline for refugees and asylum seekers on Nauru. Dutton advises them in the video to “please take advantage of the Cambodia settlement hotline on 558 6049. Call and speak to my staff and find out more about resettlement in Cambodia.”

The minister says: “I want to thank those of you who have shown the courage to stand up and be included in the first flight to Cambodia, despite the divisive actions of a few who are intent on damaging the arrangement and ruining the chances of others for a new life in a new country.

“My staff in Nauru have arrangements in place so that you can agree to take up the settlement offer without fear. I would encourage you very strongly to talk to them about this.”