By Molly Magennis
As part of the Victorian government’s expansion of its program for asylum seekers and refugees, the Asylum Seeker Resource Centre (ASRC) will partake in a new three-year funding arrangement.
The arrangement will mean the ASRC can continue to support new arrivals, and will allow them to set up a visa and study help desk, create a dedicated website with resources for students on campus and carry out staff professional development.
ASRC Director Abiola Ajetomobi said the centre welcomed the good news of the inclusion of newly arrived communities in the Asylum Seeker Vocational Education and Training program.
“Access to undertake courses and training that assist them secure and retain employment gives greater chance of successful integration in Victoria,” he said.
“We thank the Andrew’s Government for their proactive leadership and look forward to the partnership and dialogue to ensure all people seeking asylum can access VET courses in Victoria, that’s true empowerment and equitable future.”
The government’s expanded program will allow more new arrivals to access free and subsidised skills and training. The 2021/22 Victorian Budget has invested $6 million towards the expansion.
On February 17, minister for training and skills Gayle Tierney announced the expanded eligibility criteria for the Asylum Seeker VET and Reconnect programs, allowing Temporary Humanitarian Stay visa holders (about 1821 in Victoria) to access free TAFE and subsidised training.
Ms Tierney said: “Education changes lives and that’s why we’re making sure more asylum seekers and refugees have the chance to rebuild their lives in Victoria through Free TAFE and training, resettlement programs and wrap-around supports.”
“We’ve already successfully helped thousands of asylum seekers and refugees into training and job pathways – and we’ll continue doing what we can to help new arrivals feel welcome and happy in their new home.”
