As Australia celebrates Refugee Week, the Australian Government is being asked to consider a Canadian-style refugee sponsorship scheme that lets people financially sponsor the permanent migration of a refugee or refugee family.
The approach is considered a tried and tested way to encourage community participation in the welcoming and supporting of refugees.
Canada has welcomed more than 325,000 refugees over the past 40 years.
A petition supporting the move has been signed by more than 35,000 people.