Asylum kids $2000 gift while they await to learn their fate

CHILD migrants are being given up to $2000 a year for music lessons and sports club fees while their asylum claims are assessed.

The government cash is being spent on unaccompanied minors housed in the community by the Department of Immigration and Citizenship.

Opposition immigration spokesman Scott Morrison says the costs will be questioned by struggling Australian families.

"The Coalition has no objection to keeping people gainfully active in the community," Mr Morrison said.

"But I think it really will be a slap in the face to many Australian families making decisions about whether they can afford the fees for music lessons or sports fees.

"I think when the Government engages in this sort of expenditure, particularly at a time like this when they are putting a carbon tax on every family, that Australians have every right to question this Government's priorities."

The figures were revealed in the Senate.

Mr Morrison said phone and internet costs revealed a $1.3 million bill for the past year; based on 5000 people in detention, that would be $260 per person.

Almost 500 asylum seekers have arrived since Labor's Malaysian solution was scuttled last month, and the Government has warned about 600 people will come to Australia on boats while that policy is off limits.(heraldsun.com.au)