Cruel Care: A History of Children at our Borders

Abstract

A ground-breaking history of Australia's treatment of child refugees Cruel Care tells a story of government, politics and the emotions that drive decisions. It asks why Australia has treated child refugees with violence and why governments say that the cruel acts they perpetrate are a form of care. Based on extensive research including 35 oral history interviews with key policymakers, along with a rich set of archival sources this book traces how governmental authorities can make decisions designed to control and disenfranchise children in their care. It explores how legislation, ministers, political parties and the public service have combined to create a sentimental rhetoric of welfare whi..