Supporting ‘Freedom from Fear’

Australia has offered a safe haven for refugees since 1945. In fact over half a million refugees have resettled in Australia, initially arriving from various European Nations. Today, refugees from all over the world come to Australia to escape violence, persecution and war.

Refugee Week is being acknowledged across the country this week and coincides with World Refugee Day on June 20. It’s a time when the global community reflects on the plight of the worlds refugees and re-examines how to best respond to their needs.

The aims of Refugee Week are:

• to educate the Australian public about who refugees are and why they have come to Australia;
• to help people understand the many challenges refugees face coming to Australia;
• to celebrate the contribution refugees make to our community;
• to focus on how the community can provide a safe and welcoming environment for refugees;
• for community groups and individuals to do something positive for refugees, asylum seekers and displaced people, within Australia but also around the world;
• for service providers to reflect on whether they are providing the best possible services to refugees.

The theme for 2009 Refugee Week: Freedom from Fear, draws attention not just to the fear that compels refugees to run, but the relief they feel when they are welcomed into another country and given the opportunity to rebuild their lives.

Mission Australia offers several programs such as African Pathways and Reconnect that assists refugees in building a safe and stable life in Australia.

To find out more about the 2009 Refugee Week please click here