Wyndham City is backing our most vulnerable neighbours

Wyndham City was one of 30 councils across the country advocating for people seeking asylum living in our community left destitute by the cuts to the Status Resolution Support Services program. 

Cultural Diversity portfolio holder Cr Henry Barlow said the Federal Government program provided temporary support to people awaiting decisions on their asylum seekers status.

“This program offers accommodation, financial support, healthcare, education access and the provision of a caseworker while families await the Federal Government’s decision,” Cr Barlow said.

“There are over 5000 people seeking asylum across Australia, including Wyndham, who have no limited work opportunities and need the financial support in order to provide food for their families.”

“The Covid-19 pandemic has made deepened their financial crisis because their casual work has dried up and they are not eligible for Centrelink benefits.”

“Council is calling on the Federal Government to ensure a liveable income for those awaiting the decision on their asylum claims and is asking the State Governments to provide financial support.

“We need the Victorian Government to continue to provide $3 million, as it did last year, and, if possible, increase the amount due to the worsening destitution.”

“We are calling on Wyndham residents to tell the Federal Government that we should not cut the SRSS program, which could put our future doctors, nurses, lawyers, colleagues, friends and neighbours out on the streets.”

The 14th to 20th June is National Refugee Week and you can show your support, as Council has by “backing your neighbour”. Go to backyourneighbour.com.au and can sign a petition or volunteer to help the campaign.