Two dozen refugees secure work within months of arrival

Among the newly employed refugees are electricians, cleaners, removalists, painters, bricklayers, carpenters, retail staff, and labourers.

SSI HSS Service Delivery Manager Yamamah Agha said the strong employment numbers were a testament to the tenacity of newly arrived refugees who had overcome significant challenges to secure work in Australia.

“Refugees are among the most vulnerable individuals in Australia, and yet they bring a wealth of skills and talents that we can benefit from socially and economically,” Ms Agha said.

“These latest employment outcomes are just one example of the resilience and tenacity of refugees in Australia, who are so eager to overcome barriers such as language and skills recognition to contribute to Australia.”

Among the two dozen clients who overcame the odds to find work was one refugee who secured work as a childcare worker and home tutor within two months of arrival.

In another family of new arrivals, three of four family members have already secured jobs, while the fourth is in the process of establishing a business.

“Finding employment is a big step forward during the resettlement process. It helps refugees and humanitarian entrants to make new social connections, improve their confidence and become more independent,” Ms Agha said.

“The fact that so many newly arrived refugees have secured work within such a short timeframe is inspiring, and we are thrilled to have supported these individuals to achieve such a vital step in their settlement journey.”

SSI endeavours to prepare HSS clients to join the workforce by linking them to job readiness programs and supporting them through case management to develop the skills and knowledge that will assist them in their search for employment.

Clients are encouraged to prepare themselves to enter the labour market and seek employment after arrival.

These jobs are not the only recent success stories from the HSS program. A number of refugees have also started tertiary education, while two refugee artists have an opportunity to have their works exhibited under SSI’s Arts and Culture Program initiatives.