"I dont understand?"

MORE than 30 Australians have sought asylum in the US. At least two Australians have been granted asylum in America after complaining they faced religious, racial or political persecution in Australia.

Four other Australians await the outcome of US asylum applications. Privacy reasons prevent authorities detailing specific arguments used by Australians for asylum, but it is known Aborigines have made official complaints to US diplomatic staff claiming racial persecution in Australia and allegations of genocide.

Human rights lawyer Julian Burnside, QC, said the Australian applications came as a shock, but Aboriginal claims of persecution could well be entertained by US immigration courts considering asylum.

"I can understand how some Aborigines might complain of a fear of persecution," he said.

NEWS.com.au | 'Persecuted' Aussies flee to US (February 19, 2004)