By Mirwais Haidari
Starting a new life in a different country can be both exciting and challenging. For many newly arrived migrants and refugees, settling into a new community means learning a new language, understanding unfamiliar systems, and adapting to a different culture.
In Fairfield, one organisation is helping make that transition easier.
Core Community Services is a non-profit organisation that supports migrants and refugees as they begin their lives in Australia. Through settlement programs, community support, and practical assistance, the organisation helps people gain confidence and independence during their first years in the country.
Rabbi Stadt, a settlement worker at Core Community Services, said the organisation plays an important role in helping newcomers understand Australian society and access essential services.
“Core Community Services supports newly arrived migrants and refugees during their first five years in Australia,” Stadt said. “We help them understand and navigate Australian systems and services, including education, housing, financial assistance, and other essential support.”
Many migrants arrive in Australia with hopes for a better future, but the settlement process can be difficult. Language barriers, cultural differences, and unfamiliar government systems often create challenges for families who are trying to establish themselves in a new country.
According to Stadt, many of the people supported by the organisation come from countries affected by conflict, including Afghanistan, Iraq, Palestine, and Yemen. Some have experienced war, violence, and displacement before arriving in Australia.
“One of the biggest challenges new migrants face when arriving in Australia is navigating unfamiliar systems and services,” he said.
“Adapting to a new culture, learning a new language, and building connections in a new community can be overwhelming.”
To help overcome these challenges, Core Community Services connects clients with local support networks and community resources. The organisation works to ensure migrants and refugees feel included and have opportunities to participate fully in Australian society.
A key part of the settlement process is individual support provided by caseworkers. Every person and family has different needs, and settlement workers develop personalised plans to help clients achieve their goals.
“Each person’s settlement journey is unique, so we work closely with clients to understand their circumstances and identify the support they require,” Stadt said.
Support can include assistance with employment, education, obtaining a driver’s licence, accessing translation services, and connecting with community organisations. Through face-to-face meetings, phone calls, and ongoing communication, caseworkers help clients access the services they need.
“Our goal is to empower clients to become financially resilient, independent, and confident members of the community,” he said.
In addition to settlement support, the organisation also assists community members facing financial hardship. Through government-funded programs, eligible individuals and families can receive emergency assistance with essential needs such as groceries, electricity, and gas bills.
Young people are another important focus of the organisation’s work. Moving to a new country can be especially challenging for children and teenagers who must adjust to a different education system while building new friendships and adapting to a new environment.
Core Community Services provides specialised youth programs to support young people facing challenges such as social isolation, homelessness, employment difficulties, and family issues. A dedicated youth worker also supports newly arrived migrants as they settle into life in Australia.
To encourage social connection and community participation, the organisation runs a range of activities, including sports programs and community events.
“These activities provide opportunities for young people to meet others, build friendships, develop confidence, and feel a sense of belonging,” Stadt said.
“Our goal is to help young people feel welcomed, supported, and connected, so they can see Australia not just as a new country, but as a place they can eventually call home.”
For many migrants and refugees, support from community organisations can make a significant difference during the settlement journey. Access to information, practical assistance, and social connections can help reduce the challenges associated with starting over in a new country.
Stadt believes resilience and determination are important qualities for newcomers as they build their future in Australia.
“My message to newly arrived migrants is to stay resilient, work hard, and be open to new experiences and challenges,” he said.
“Keep learning, keep trying, and believe in your potential. Australia is a land of opportunity where, with determination and perseverance, you can build a successful future for yourself and your family.”
As Fairfield continues to welcome people from diverse backgrounds, organisations such as Core Community Services play a vital role in helping migrants and refugees establish themselves, connect with their communities, and create a sense of belonging in their new home.
Featured image: Core Community Services in Fairfield provides vital support to newly arrived migrants and refugees, helping them build successful and independent lives in Australia. Photo: Mirwais Haidari
