Connecting migrants and refugees with opportunities

Published on 21 February 2023

The Federation community are invited to an information briefing to learn more about the Multicultural NSW’s Growing Regions of Welcome (GROW) 3-year pilot program.

Federation Council is supporting the GROW program, which aims to connect interested people from migrant and refugee backgrounds living in Western Sydney with lifestyle and employment opportunities in regional NSW.

Many migrants often have under-utilised skills, qualifications, and experience, and are not aware of the employment opportunities available in regional NSW. or are unsure of the supports available to them and their families, as well as many other opportunities that these regional communities have to offer newcomers.  This pilot program will provide an opportunity to showcase what the Murray Region has to offer as a resettlement location for migrants and refugees from Western Sydney.

As part of GROW, Multicultural NSW has set up a Regional Employment Hub in Western Sydney, managed by Australian Red Cross. The Hub is assisting interested newcomers and their families to connect with opportunities and employers in regional NSW where their qualifications, skills, experience, and interests fit, as well as supporting relocation.

Murray was selected as one of the GROW pilot sites because of the strong interest from employers, community members, councils, and services to attract and retain more migrants. A local Murray Regional Taskforce is being coordinated by Australian Red Cross to coordinate GROW activities across the region, and includes members from AlburyCity, Greater Hume Shire Council, Federation Council, as well as local community groups and organisations, as well as employers.

Federation Council Mayor, Cr Pat Bourke encouraged the community to come along to the information session, which is being run by Murray Taskforce Members, to find out more about the GROW program and how they can register their interest to become involved in welcoming and supporting newcomers.

“We pride ourselves on being a diverse and inclusive community, that offers opportunities to people from all walks of life,” Mayor Bourke said.

“We are proud to support the GROW program, giving newcomers the opportunity to make a fresh start in our great city, giving local employers another avenue to access skilled workers, and nurturing our multicultural community.”

Find out more about the GROW program by contacting the NSW GROW Murray Backbone Coordinator:

Esiteli Nyirarukundo (She/Her)

NSW GROW Murray Backbone Coordinator

Australian Red Cross South Western NSW

PH: 02 59632999 II M: 0414698543 II E:[email protected]

Event Details

Date and Time: Wednesday, March 8 5pm - 7pm.

Event Location: Art Space - Corowa Civic Centre, 100 Edward Street, Corowa, NSW, 2646