By Brendan Rees
The Federal Government has announced funding for five new community hubs to benefit hundreds of migrant and refugee families in Casey.
The $1.2 million investment will create spaces for migrant and refugee women and their children to learn English, develop new skills, find employment, integrate and access programs and services.
Federal Member for Families and Social Services Paul Fletcher joined La Trobe MP Jason Wood at Bunjil Place in Narre Warren on Friday 3 May for the announcement as part of the Government’s commitment to establish 32 new hubs nationally under the 2019-20 Budget.
Mr Fletcher said Casey was experiencing an increase in the number of migrants choosing to settle in the area, and the hubs would provide the opportunity for new migrants and ethnic groups to “feel fully supported in their engagement with the broader community.”
“I would be hopeful that we might have some of these up and running by the 2020 school year,” he said.
“The Community Hubs Program has a proven track record in helping migrant and refugee women and their young children navigate daily life in their communities to set them on a pathway to participation and employment.”
Mr Fletcher said he would expect the hubs to be located at schools and community centres but the Federal Government will work with Casey Council, settlement service providers, school principals and local community group representatives on the need, feasibility, and location of the new hubs.
“It’s all about supporting women of migrant and refugee communities to better engage with the community, improve their skills, improve their English and also help get their children set up for the next stage when they go to school,” he said.
Mr Wood said the Federal Government was committed to “supporting social cohesion and harmonious communities, and this funding commitment will go a long way towards achieving this aim here in La Trobe.”
Councillor Rex Flannery said: “It is essential that we provide support to our refugees and migrant communities to improve social isolation, and create opportunities to allow them to forge their own path,” he said.
Dr Sonja Hood, CEO of Community Hubs Australia, also welcomed the funding boost: “Over the past decade, hubs have made a significant difference in schools and communities across Australia. We are delighted that this announcement secures the future of our existing hubs, as well as expanding the program into communities such as Casey.”
Manager, Communications and Business Improvement, Manager at Southern Migrant and Refugee Centre, Sue Brown said: “Working with the diverse communities we’re thrilled with an opportunity for the community hubs to assist their integration in the community –it’s fantastic.”
