This statement provides an update on Operation Sovereign Borders (OSB) activities related to the reception and processing of unauthorised maritime arrivals (UMAs)*.
The reporting period is from 01 August 2025 to 31 August 2025.
During this reporting period:
- Australian authorities successfully resolved two maritime people smuggling ventures targeting Australia under to OSB framework.
- 13 persons were safely returned to their country of origin, consistent with Australia's protection obligations.
- Zero (0) UMAs were transferred from Australia to a regional processing country.
- Less than five (<5) UMAs were transferred from Australia to a regional processing country, returning after a temporary purpose in Australia.
- Less than five (<5) UMAs were transferred from a regional processing country to Australia for a temporary purpose or as accompanying family.
- Less than five (<5) UMAs voluntarily returned to their country of origin from a regional processing country.
- Less than five (<5) UMAs were voluntarily returned to their country of origin from Australia and 0 UMAs were involuntarily removed to their country of origin from Australia.
- Nine (9) UMAs were resettled in a third country Nine (9) from the cohort temporarily in Australia and 0 direct from Nauru).
The processing of UMA protection claims is a matter for the Government of Nauru.
*These statistics reference UMAs who arrived on or after 19 July 2013.
Media enquiries:
ABF Media: media@abf.gov.au
