Do you seamlessly navigate splitting a bill between a large group? Are you the voice of reason in your WhatsApp group chat? And, above all, do you have a desire to do good, rooted in the belief that local action can create global change? If you answered yes to any of the above, read on.

More dynamic and driven people are needed to guide and gather groups of 5 or more people to welcome and support a refugee household in their local communities. These could be friends, neighbours, colleagues or complete strangers that are looking to connect through the shared goal of helping refugee newcomers rebuild a safer, more secure life here, in Australia. There have already been over 400 refugees welcomed through the program by hundreds of groups made up of everyday Aussies, many who have described the experience as the most rewarding thing they have ever been a part of.

So, what’s involved?

• An average of 10-15 hours per week, collectively
• Fundraising efforts that will be used by your group to support the refugee household in their first few weeks in Australia
• 12 months of holistic support to a newly arrived refugee household that your group will be matched with by Community Refugee Sponsorship Australia (CRSA)

As a group, what sort of things will we help the household with?

• Local orientation, including welcoming at the airport
• Registering with Services Australia
• Enrolling in school, further education and English classes
• Finding long-term housing
• Connecting with healthcare providers
• Forming social connections and friendship

Key tasks of a group coordinator include:

• Forming a group – find a minimum of 4 others who’ll work with you
• Assigning roles and responsibilities – delegate tasks to other group members
• Group communication - facilitate group meetings, group chats, and circulate emails from CRSA
• Leading onboarding processes - including background checks and training
• Communicate with the CRSA team regarding your group application and throughout your involvement
• Defining goals – regularly checking in with the group to make sure you stay on track
• Make a plan of action – lead on the development and submission of important documents

In addition to the support of your group, you'll also receive guidance and assistance from CRSA, who will accompany you through every step of your community sponsorship journey.

Who can apply?
Anybody! You don’t need any special skills - just the desire to be an ally to a newcomer. If you've lived in Australia, you've got the know-how and experience to empower newly arrived refugees to navigate life here.

The program operates all over Australia – it's just as appropriate for rural people who’d like to welcome new arrivals as it is for their city cousins.

Get involved this global movement, inspired by Canada's impactful initiative, and become a welcoming face in your hometown for refugees. This is your chance to turn compassion into action, helping newcomers feel at home in your community. Be a part of this life-changing experience – both for yourself and for those seeking a new beginning.