An asylum seeker is someone who has made a claim under the Refugee Convention and is awaiting a decision on their case. On the whole, asylum seekers are only entitled to apply to NASS (National Asylum Support Service) for support and accommodation. They are not allowed to work while their claim is being decided. Refugees are able to work and they are covered by housing and community care law. They are also entitled to apply for mainstream welfare benefits and family reunion. Until April 2003 applicants whose circumstances did not merit a grant of asylum under.
