I believe Australia will stop torturing genuine refuges in offshore detention centres and grant them protection visas to come to Australia, as the Government on other plan to end the torture.

The New Guinea Prime Minister has highlighted the torture impacts on the detainees.

Australian defence has recently demonstrated they are able to detect and stop undeclared boats with potential illegal immigrants.

So the deterrent of ongoing torture to stop the boats is no longer necessary.

Those in detention are innocent victims of a scam.

They have not committed a crime.

So Scott perform another miracle and end offshore detention of genuine refuges.

Ian Young, Towradgi

The University of Wollongong can rightly claim to be among the best in the nation.

Then why don't we as residents make Wollongong one of Australia's best "University cities"?

UOW is well positioned geographically and, is well serviced by public transport.

Its very existence provides the local economy with a significant economic and societal stimulus.

Stimuli which with some "outside of the square" thinking could become even more significant.

Consider the benefits which would flow from governments purchasing the vacant properties in both Wollongong and Port Kembla CBD's and turning them into accommodation for UOW students.

Consider the effect of such a move on the CBD's themselves.

Currently, taking a stroll through either after sundown might not always be a truly enjoyable experience.

However with a residential presence 24/7 this could all change for the better.

The change from closed and shuttered shops to a thriving commercial zone would not only provide an economic improvement but a societal one as well.

All this radical concept requires is energy and, money for its success.

The citizens of Wollongong can definitely provide the energy. But will our governments provide the money?

That my friends will remain the $1,000,000 question.

Barry Swan, Balgownie

I would ask John Ernst if we should close our eyes and minds to appease the fascist elements of society.

One of the best aspects of a liberal democracy is that we have a free press that can shine a light on contentious issues so we can have on open debate about what is important in our society.

In this particular instance, we have the right wing press (Murdoch) and the more liberal elements like Fairfax and the ABC in lock step on this issue.

Both sides have been raided by the Federal police and both sides have called for more protection of free speech.

Maybe John would like to move to Russia or some other repressive nation that only allows one side to any story.

William Bielefeldt, Kembla Grange