National Refugee Week

This year, we’re celebrating National Refugee Week by saying welcome.

Craig Foster is a former Socceroo and advocate for human rights. Hakeem al-Araibi is an Australian footballer and refugee. The two have a special relationship, with Craig leading the campaign for Hakeem’s release after he was detained in Thailand in November, 2018. For National Refugee Week, the two got together for a chat, filmed as part of our In Search of Safety program. You can support our ongoing work helping people facing hardship, including refugees and people seeking asylum, by making a donation.

Craig and Hakeem also took part in a In Search of Safety session at a WA primary school. These workshops, which Red Cross delivers to schools, workplaces and community groups, allow people to discuss the issues facing refugees and people seeking asylum. They are a space to ask questions, encourage conversations and foster empathy. They combine facts, thought-provoking presentations and stories from people like Hakeem, with first-hand experience of seeking safety and being granted protection. Learn more and sign-up for a workshop.

Elie and his family were supported through our Humanitarian Settlement Program, which provides refugees a safe and welcoming introduction to their new life in Australia.

We also provide support to those seeking safety who are living in uncertainty as they wait for their protection claims to be assessed. Every month we help with financial support, so they can meet their basic needs. This includes emergency accommodation, food and pantry essentials, transport vouchers and other aid. We also provide long-term casework support to help people find jobs and connect with other services.

The need for assistance has increased during the COVID-19 pandemic. By making a donation, you can help us continue to support people facing hardship, including refugees and people seeking asylum.