I agree Michael, have a look at the real backlog of $100 million.... The trees are only a dot on the real problems around!

So, Michael - please tell us exactly what you recommend...or is this just another 'somebody should do something' gripe? God forbid we should embarrass the 'US visitor'. Do you suggest that every resident hands over, say, $1000 to fund the renovation of the city? Or is the embarrassment not quite that acute?

Nobody is listening to me. I'll say it again. Bring all the refugees and asylum seekers to Newcastle. This city's only problem is lack of diversity. The influx of people from diverse backgrounds will create vibrance.

The Howard and Gillard governments have spent billions on this political one-upmanship. Divert the billions into Newcastle through compulsory aquisition of property. Infuse Newcastle with a cultural diversity that we can all be proud of. If Tony Abbott can live next door to a nuclear reactor, surely we can find it within us to accept a few desperate people fleeing war?

@Bettered, there are 7000 international students from 80 different countries at University of Newcastle. Unfortunately, they have to leave the country as soon as they graduate since the government made PR and citizenship process difficult for international students.

FG-So, what your point?

@bettered, I had made my point, but my comment wasn't published in full. Newcastle has the potential for cultural diversity with UNC's international students; educated, intellectual and most are in good financial conditions. Rather than bringing refugees and asylum seekers who have no money, no education, Newcastle can benefit more if we can encourage UNC's international students to stay in Newcastle after they graduate. That would provide a cultural diversity which we can all be proud of.

FG - Both the Howard and Rudd/Gillard governments have funnelled hundreds of millions of dollars offshore in an attempt to persuade the Hansonites that they are taking a tough line on "queue jumpers". It's a vote winner that's costing you and me plenty. These same people can't find 31/2 halfpenny for Newcastle. I agree with you and anything to do with education. The more students the better. I'm not suggesting we turn Newcastle into a concentration camp for refugees. Go and have a day's adventure in Cabrammatta and you'll get the picture. It's a great day out and cheap by train.