Want to help?
People seeking asylum need to know that while this policy is unfair, the community cares. The recent policy change has shifted costs to community agencies and charities, many of which are already stretched to meet current demands.
What is the Brotherhood doing?
The Brotherhood has joined a groundswell of community agencies, local governments and peak bodies, to:
- advocate to the Australian Government to reinstate a safety net,
- provide a range of services to lessen destitution.
This included participating in a delegation to Canberra of community organisations to meet with MPs and Australian Government representatives. We realise that no single agency can address this problem and we need to work together. Additionally, we have been working with local governments and other stakeholders to develop local responses to address the impacts of the program cuts for affected residents.
Sunday 14 October Melbourne Marathon 3km Walk fundraiser
Our Melbourne Marathon 3km walk raised funds to help us expand our much-needed employment programs that support people seeking asylum to get a job.
Employment programs
We support people seeking asylum to gain employment through our Employment Pathways for People Seeking Asylum program and our Given the Chance program.
Increasing the scale of employment programs
The need for employment support outstrips the current available resources. We are seeking funds to increase the scale of these programs.
What you can do
Like the Brotherhood, many other organisations are deeply concerned about the policy changes. Get involved.
Join a campaign
The Refugee Council of Australia is leading the Roof over my head campaign.
The Australian Churches Refugee Taskforce is leading the Dignity not Destitution Campaign.
Donate money or material items
There are many organisations providing emergency relief services. Assistance may include rent relief or help with pharmaceuticals costs, food, material aid, myki cards, and community dinners. If you are considering providing material aid, please check what items are required.
The Refugee Council of Australia community services directory is an important resource.
Provide accommodation
The Australian Churches Refugee Taskforce is facilitating the HomeHost program that supports individuals to provide accommodation to people who have become destitute, or others who are housing and hosting people seeking asylum.
Give your time
There are many volunteer opportunities through different community based groups and social service organisations. Volunteer roles can vary from supporting somebody to develop jobseeking skills, to food relief, community meals and coordinating material aid. Check out the Refugee Council of Australia directory for organisations in your area that support people seeking asylum.
Employ a person seeking asylum
Work opportunities can make a huge difference. This may involve direct employment, traineeships, internships or work experience.
Get in touch with our Given the Chance program which links employers with people seeking asylum.
The Brotherhood of St Laurence supports people seeking asylum.
