Special Event: Tampa - 25th Year Anniversary

In August 2001, the Australian Government refused permission for the Norwegian freighter MV Tampa to enter Australian waters after it rescued 433 asylum seekers, predominantly Hazara people fleeing Afghanistan, from a distressed fishing vessel in international waters. The vessel was also carrying five crew members.

The decision sparked intense political debate in the lead-up to the 2001 Federal Election and led to a diplomatic dispute between Australia and Norway.

More than two decades later, the Tampa affair remains one of the most significant and contested events in modern Australian history. Its impact continues to shape discussions around asylum seekers, migration policy and humanitarian responsibility, both in Australia and internationally.

Many regard it as a defining moment that influenced public attitudes towards refugees across Australia, the United Kingdom, Europe and the United States.

To mark the 25th anniversary of this pivotal event, the ABC will premiere TAMPA The Turning Point, a landmark three-part documentary series produced by Mint Pictures.

Developed with support from Screen Australia, the series explores the human and political consequences of the Tampa affair through the perspectives of asylum seekers, the ship's captain, political leaders and members of the Australian community whose lives were touched by the events.

Guests are invited to the Australian National Maritime Museum for an exclusive screening of the first episode, followed by a thought-provoking panel discussion featuring:

• The Honourable Alexander Downer AC – Former Minister for Foreign Affairs
• Abbas Nazari – Afghan refugee and survivor of the Tampa rescue
• Dr Madeline Gleeson – Deputy Director, Andrew & Renata Kaldor Centre for International Refugee Law, UNSW Sydney

The discussion will be moderated by David Marr, award-winning author and journalist.

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