Volunteer Groups – Welcome and provide support to refugee newcomers

Seeking a meaningful and direct way to make a difference? Groups of everyday Australians can now support refugee arrivals under the ‘CRISP’ program – the Community Refugee Integration and Settlement Pilot.

Join a 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.

What’s involved?

• An independent and self-directed group of 5+ adult volunteers are trained by Community Refugee Sponsorship Australia (CRSA) to support newly arrived refugees.
• Refugee participants in urgent need of resettlement are referred into the program by the UNHCR and matched with a volunteer group.
• Refugee participants arrive as permanent residents with full Centrelink and Medicare entitlements.
• The group will offer a warm welcome and a soft landing. They will raise funds towards their efforts to support the initial needs of the refugee household, and help them get to know their new neighbourhood.
• The group will support the refugee household to enrol in government services, enrol in school, and pursue their aspirations based on their own needs and capabilities.

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.

Do I need to already have a group of five people?

No – but it’s a good time to start having some conversations with friends. We’ve got some tips on finding a group as well as a Facebook page where you can find like-minded individuals and form a group.

Time required:

We estimate the entire group will need to provide around 10-15 hours support per week between them, with more help needed in the first few weeks and assistance tapering off across the year.

This is a flexible schedule that will be determined by your group, with consideration of the needs of the refugee participants.

NOTE: THIS IS A VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY THAT REQUIRES A 12 MONTH COMMITMENT.

Thanks for your interest!

1. Attend an upcoming information session or watch a recording in your own time.
2. Begin having conversations with friends, family, neighbours, colleagues and other kinds of networks to start forming a group. Use these tips and resources.
3. Submit a group intention to apply form on our website via the “Apply Now” button to let us know you’re interested in preparing to welcome a refugee household.