To their eternal discredit, the opposition, fearful for its own political future, missed its opportunity to stand for decency and compassion, and went along with the government's fearful narrative.

Nineteen years later, the government still treats these innocent people with cruelty and contempt.

During the COVID-19 crisis, temporary visa holders have been among those excluded from the support - Jobkeeper and Jobseeker, that has been so important for the well-being of many Australians.

Thousands of refugee families have been forced to depend upon charity through this difficult time.

Now we find that hundreds of refugees living in community detention, who were brought to Australia for medical treatment are to be left without support.

They face eviction, and funding for complex health needs is being withdrawn.

They will gain access to Medicare, and also the right to work.

In a time when unemployment rates are at record levels, and having been denied work for so long, they will struggle to find employment.

These people have complex medical needs, including mental health issues that have been caused or compounded by the cruel treatment of our government.

Through September more than 500 men, women and children were placed onto final departure bridging E visas, and told to leave Australia.

These people came here asking for our protection; it is not safe for them to return home.

In Bendigo we are deeply appreciative of the contribution that refugees are making to our community.

They are people like us, who share our values, hopes and aspirations.

It is time that our leaders abandoned their narrative of fear, end their cruel treatment and disparagement of these good and innocent people, and chose, with us, the way of compassion, welcome and love.

Chris Conroy's letter 21st October re the proposed "Parking Bay" removal in Napier Street White Hills is spot on.

What a stupid ridiculous idea from some overpaid pen pusher at Vic Roads.

It's difficult enough now to find a park at this location, the removal of these two bays would just add to the issue.

Bendigo police units to enforce road rules as part of Operation Saturn

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