The Minister for Multicultural Affairs has announced a new service set to deliver support for migrants, refugees and asylum seekers settling in Canberra.
The Minister, Chris Steel said the Integrated Welcome to Canberra Support Service is to be delivered by the Multicultural Hub and would complement existing services.
“The multicultural community told us that extra support was required to welcome newly arrived migrants, refugees and asylum seekers, when they arrive to Canberra often without any resources,” Mr Steel said.
“The Multicultural Hub will lead the delivery of the Support Services, which will include settlement information, advice and support primarily in their first five years of arrival in Canberra, and beyond if required,” he said.
“Companion House and Red Cross are among local service providers who will partner on this initiative.”
Mr Steel said the new service would also provide assistance to meet needs on issues such as housing, access to health services and trauma support, employment, transport and legal assistance.
“As part of the service, an inaugural expo will be held during Harmony Week next year,” he said.
“It will be followed by regular expos to connect new Canberrans with the community, services, information, advice, social and economic opportunities in the ACT and surrounding regions.”
Mr Steel said the new service included a ‘Welcome to Canberra’ pack in multiple languages, with information and links to services that would help connect new migrants to the community.
