The APS has been involved in a range of support and advocacy activities in relation to refugees, including:
- contributing to public inquiries into aspects of immigration detention and refugee policy
- public statements and media releases
- representation on the Detention Health Advisory Group that developed evidence-based policies and procedures on detainee health and wellbeing
- the establishment of a Refugee Issues and Psychology Interest Group
- linking psychologists with refugee services/organisations.
The APS has voiced concerns about the harmful effects of immigration detention on the mental health and wellbeing of asylum seekers, particularly those who are already vulnerable.
The APS has also argued for positive and accurate representation of refugees and refugee issues in the media and in government policies. This is linked to the successful settlement and wellbeing of refugees in multicultural Australia.