Weekly Dose

Today we mark World Refugee Day and reaffirm our commitment to this year’s theme - ‘Stand in Solidarity’ - with refugees around the world, and in our own community. 

We honour the strength, courage and resilience of refugees around the globe who have been forced to leave their home countries, fleeing conflict, persecution, and hardship in search of safety.   
Together, across the Ovens Murray community we can work together to welcome refugees and share in their cultures and wealth of skills, knowledge and love they bring.  

By working together, across sectors, services, and communities, we can ensure that newly arrived individuals and families are supported to thrive. Whether through health care, education, employment, or community support, we all have a role to play in building belonging.

There is a wealth of resources available for refugees and newly arrived people in our communities including: 

• Albury Wodonga Ethnic Community Council 
  https://www.awecc.org.au/ 
  Advocacy, programs and support for multicultural communities.  

• Gateway Health Multicultural Clinic 
  https://gatewayhealth.org.au/services/gp-clinics/multicultural-clinic/ 
  Culturally appropriate care and health services. 

• Refugee Support Services (STARTTS) Albury Wodonga 
  http://www.startts.org.au/ 
  Trauma-informed counselling and support for people from refugee backgrounds. 

• Regional Development Australia Murray Welcoming Experience: 
  http://www.rdamurray.org.au/the-welcome-experience 
  Community-led program helping newcomers settle, connect, and thrive. 

• Australian Red Cross Albury 
  http://www.redcross.org.au/migration/humanitarian-settlement 
  Support for refugees as they build new lives in Australia. 

By acknowledging World Refugee Day, we reflect on our shared humanity and the power of compassion. Together, let’s continue to create a community where everyone feels safe, valued, and welcome.