Australia can do more to protect refugees fleeing the war in Ukraine and Queensland's quarantine facility has beds available, the state's premier says.
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Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk, who has Polish heritage, reflected on her grandparents' arrival from war-torn Europe for a better life as she pushed for more action from the Commonwealth.
"Why aren't we offering the hand of friendship during this time?" she told parliament on Thursday.
The purpose-built quarantine facility at Wellcamp had beds available to act as a temporary home, Ms Palaszczuk said.
"There are beds available right here right now ... the planes can fly directly into Toowoomba and they can be housed there straight away."
The premier told the house that her grandfather was from a part of Poland that is now considered Ukrainian territory.
"I personally understand what it's like to have families fleeing war-torn Europe," she said.
"I firmly believe that we should be doing more for refugees that are fleeing Ukraine."
The call follows a similar offer from Victorian Premier Dan Andrews, who said his state was ready to help.
"We'll work with the Commonwealth government wherever possible to welcome families seeking either temporary shelter, or to find a new permanent home here in our state," Mr Andrews tweeted on February 27.
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade says it is progressing outstanding visa applications from Ukrainian nationals as a priority across all visa categories.
"The prime minister has also announced that automatic visa extensions for six months will be given to Ukrainian nationals in Australia who have a visa expiring before June 30, 2022," the Department said on March 8.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison said further announcements on aid to Ukraine would be made in the coming days following a phone call with Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal on Wednesday.
"The people of Ukraine have shown, and their government and their leadership and President Zelensky have shown, an enormous grit and courage, and they're an inspiration," he told reporters on Thursday.
Australian Associated Press
