How JRS Responds in Australia

JRS Australia delivers integrated services across two key areas of Western Sydney, addressing both immediate needs and long-term stability.

Emergency Assistance

• Food assistance and foodbank services
• Non-food material aid
• Complex casework support
• Safe haven for women experiencing gender-based and sexual violence
• Legal support services

Education and Livelihoods

• English language classes
• Specialist referrals
• Employment support
• Computer and digital literacy training
• Community awareness sessions
• Refugee leadership programs
• School and community engagement
• Advocacy

Standout Program: The Finding Safety Project

The Finding Safety Project provides specialized, holistic support for women on temporary visas who are experiencing violence. The program bridges gaps between domestic violence services and the asylum-seeking sector, ensuring safer and more coordinated support for vulnerable women.

Today’s Challenges

1. High demand for basic services

There is consistent demand for food, material aid, and casework support as many individuals struggle to meet basic needs.

2. Reduced funding for livelihoods programs

Since 2017, livelihoods training programs supported by international funding have been scaled back due to declining resources, limiting pathways to economic inclusion.

3. Barriers to long-term stability

Refugees and people seeking asylum continue to face challenges accessing employment, education, and stable support systems. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}

Critical Needs

Communities supported by JRS Australia require continued access to basic services, including food assistance, legal support, and safe housing. At the same time, there is a strong need for expanded education and livelihoods programs that promote self-reliance and long-term stability.

Refugee and Community Involvement

Refugees in Australia play an active role in strengthening their communities and supporting one another.

• Refugees raise families while maintaining cultural identity and connection
• They demonstrate strong work ethic and professional capacity
• They support newly arrived individuals by sharing knowledge and building community connections

This community-driven support helps reduce isolation and fosters long-term inclusion. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}

Localizing Aid and Building Resilience

JRS Australia’s work is rooted in community engagement, allowing programs to adapt quickly to changing needs. By working closely with local communities, JRS ensures services are relevant, accessible, and impactful.

Impact of Funding Gaps

Reduced international funding has significantly affected livelihoods training programs, limiting opportunities for refugees to achieve economic stability and independence.

Without sustained investment, access to education, employment pathways, and long-term support systems remains constrained.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does JRS Australia help refugees?

JRS provides food assistance, legal support, education, livelihoods training, and safe housing support for refugees and people seeking asylum.

What is the Finding Safety Project?

It is a specialized program that supports women on temporary visas experiencing violence by connecting them to safe housing, legal support, and services.

Where does JRS operate in Australia?

JRS operates in Western Sydney, one of the country’s largest communities of migrants and refugees.

Who does JRS Australia serve?

JRS serves refugees and people seeking asylum from countries including Sudan, Palestine, Iran, and Ukraine.