More than half of Australians are first or second-generation migrants. From refugees who are newly-arrived to elderly migrants who crossed the oceans decades ago, one thing is common. Finding a sense of belonging while holding onto aspects of their cultural heritage can be a tricky road to navigate.

Spectrum provides high quality, culturally safe and responsive services to help make that journey easier. Our partnerships help us to reach more people. And our advocacy ensures we play our part in creating a more inclusive Australia.

Programs

Last year, our 278+ staff, working across 25 different programs, helped over 4,400 people to feel at home.

Some examples include:

• 603 Expression of Interest from people wanting to migrate to Australia
• 181 Visa applications submitted on behalf of families
• 615 newly arrived refugees supported under the Humanitarian Settlement Program
• 1,308 people supported through Settlement Engagement and Transition Support
• 170 families supported through the Family and Relationship Service
• 163 Citizenship applications
• 2,120 clients supported by Aged & Disability Services
• 87,862 hours of in-home care for the elderly and people with disabilities
• 69,028 hours of social support group and respite service provided

Partnerships

We can reach more people by expanding our services and service partnerships in response to our community needs, feedback and evidence.

Some examples include:

• MOU with Kangan Institute which aims to enhance settlement support, access to work placements and employment pathways for migrants and refugees.
• Co-locating with Whittlesea Community Connections‘ Jobs Victoria Mentor Service (JVMS), providing opportunities to share knowledge and identify ways to achieve better employment outcomes for clients.
• Partnership with Our Village, who provide donated necessities for the babies and children of newly-arrived families.

Advocacy

We draw on our experience working with refugees, migrants, and seniors to contribute to policy changes, amplify the voices of our clients, and create a more inclusive Australia.

Some examples include:

• Representation as part of the Australian Delegation at the Consultations on Resettlement and Complementary Pathways (CRCP) in Geneva.
• Submissions to various government reviews and consultations, including the Australian Multicultural Framework Review, and consultation on Australia’s Humanitarian Program for 2024–25.
• Joining the alliance to Activate Australia’s Skills – a national campaign seeking to improve skills and qualifications recognition policy for new migrants