Australians will come together during Refugee Week (June 20-26) to celebrate our humanitarian commitment and the enormous contribution refugees make to the nation.
This year’s theme – Freedom from fear – recognises the strength and courage of refugees who overcome incredible hardships to start new lives free from fear and persecution.
Australia provides comprehensive support systems for refugees and others in humanitarian need and consistently ranks among the world’s top three resettlement countries, along with the United States and Canada.
Since the end of World War II, around 750 000 refugees have settled in Australia. A further 13 750 people will be welcomed through the humanitarian program in the 2010-11 program year.
From Cairns to Hobart and Sydney to Perth, the Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) is proud to support a wide range of events during Refugee Week which will celebrate the remarkable journeys made by refugees who have come to call Australia home.
In Sydney, Refugee Week celebrations will continue throughout the week, such as the Freedom from fear 2010 event at Cabramatta Town Centre on June 18. The event includes guest speakers, testimonials, and a “safe haven” tent to give participants the chance to experience the reality of life in a refugee camp.
The Sydney suburb of Marrickville will host My Voice! on June 20, which will launch the stories of many volunteer participants who have entered Australia through the humanitarian program.
In Brisbane, there will be a Freedom from fear candlelight walk and lantern parade and concert on June 18, with those attending walking together along the river to recognise the positive contributions of refugees and to remember the many millions in refugee camps and stateless people through the world.
In Tasmania, events are planned throughout the week for Hobart and Launceston, with three Neighbourhood Houses hosting welcome events to build positive relations and connections between emerging refugee communities and local community members. Each event will include performances and presentations by former refugees, local community representatives and volunteers, with 70 to 100 people expected to attend each event.
Note to news editors/chiefs of staff: For planning purposes, DIAC may be able to help you to localise and personalise Refugee Week stories with talent from your area. Please contact us for further assistance.
Media Enquiries: National Communications 02 6264 2244
