Category: Latest News

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Multicultural Road Safety Program Update

Posted on | by Vikki Hine

Stay safe with our upcoming Information Sessions – last sessions for May!

We are running a series of Multicultural Road Safety information sessions in 2025 from February to May.

Upcoming sessions include:
12 May 10am-11am Parents/Caregivers of Learner Drivers, SydWest Blacktown in Tagalog
16 May 3pm – 4pm Older People Licensing, online in Dari (just added!)
28 May 10am-11am Parents/Caregivers of Learner Drivers, SydWest Blacktown in Tamil

The sessions have covered important topics such as:

• Child Car Seat Safety
• Licensing for Older People
• Guidance for Parents/Caregivers of Learner Drivers
• Pedestrian Behaviour for Older People

To ensure accessibility, we have been offering these sessions in various languages, including Arabic, Dari, Farsi, Urdu, Punjabi, Tamil, and Tagalog. Sessions are held in various venues across Blacktown LGA including Toongabbie, Glenwood, Blacktown and Mt Druitt.

Understanding road safety and your responsibilities is crucial for everyone. We aim to help you prioritize safety every time you drive.

If you’re interested in participating and for further information, please reach out to Saurav or Sonia at info@sydwestms.org.au or call 9621-6633.

Please book your seats as there are limited seats available in each session.

#transportfornsw #metroassist #AdvanceDiversityServices

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SydWest congratulates ALP on win

Posted on | by Vikki Hine | Leave a Comment on SydWest congratulates ALP on win

Media Release
6 May 2025

SydWest Multicultural Services congratulates Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and the Australian Labor Party (ALP) on their return to government.

This re-election presents a renewed opportunity for the Australian Government to deliver on the vision expressed during the Prime Minister’s victory speech which is to “show courage in adversity and kindness to those in need.”

The Prime Minister explained that for Australia to serve its Australian values and be the best it can be, we must value every Australian, a statement that SydWest Multicultural Services fundamentally believes in. This is a new phase for the Government, yet SydWest’s vision endures which is to create an inclusive society where all people have equal opportunities to grow and thrive.

Elfa Moraitakis, CEO of SydWest Multicultural Services said that “voters in Australia and Sydney have voted for a government that considers the needs of all Australians – people of all ages, backgrounds and living situations. Sydney is a community with diverse demographics and challenges and a government that addresses this diversity is vital to building a thriving society.’

Millions of Australians are counting on the Prime Minister’s leadership to ease the cost-of-living crisis and provide access to secure, safe, and affordable housing.

For the nearly 50% of Australians, from culturally and linguistic diverse (CALD) backgrounds, this next government term also holds the promise of meaningful action on key priorities, including:

•         Culturally responsive domestic and family violence support,

•         Aged care that is fair, affordable and accessible to all, and

•         An NDIS that provides participants with genuine choice and control.

Now is a pivotal time for community organisations such as SydWest. We are hopeful for a stronger focus on reducing barriers and ensuring reforms are introduced with adequate lead times, enabling the sector to prepare and respond effectively. Our mission is to deliver quality services meeting diverse needs and we invite federal MPs to work with us to ensure its policies meet the needs of all Australians.

STATEMENT ENDS /

Click here to download full media release

Media enquiries
For further information or to arrange photo opportunities or interviews, contact Vikki Hine, Media and Events, SydWest Multicultural Services on vikki.hine@sydwestms.org.au or 0428-109-215.

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Penrith Mothers enjoy Excursion to The Very Hungry Caterpillar

Posted on | by Vikki Hine

Our Penrith Migrant and Refugee Women’s Support Group families had a special excursion recently to The Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre to see The Very Hungry Caterpillar.

Thank you to Penrith City Council for arranging our complimentary tickets.

Everyone had a wonderful time and the show brought smiles, laughter, and excitement to all.

Our mothers expressed appreciation for the opportunity to see the 50 minute show, which brought their favourite book characters to life.

One of our younger guests summed it up perfectly with “This is much better than going to the movies!!! These are real people!!!”

Everyone had a great day and we’re very grateful for the opportunity provided.

If you want to know more about our Penrith Mothers Support group, contact our Women and Families team on 9621-6633 or anjum.ali@sydwestms.org.au

More information online at https://sydwestms.org.au/services/women-and-families/ or download the Penrith information flyer

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Mothers Support Groups and Multicultural Playgroup starting up for Term 2 now.

Posted on | by Vikki Hine

If you’re interested in joining one of our groups, contact the Women and Families team today on Tel 9621-6633 or info@sydwestms.org.au to learn more about the regular sessions and activities.

Our groups are a great way to develop friendships and social networks, as well as learn new things and engage in lots of fun and educational activities.

More information on all our groups at https://sydwestms.org.au/services/women-and-families/

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Blacktown Women’s Support Group

Posted on | by Vikki Hine

Starting soon!

Join our Blacktown Women’s Support Group – Term 2 is starting 1st May, it’s completely free!

Just some of the activities that you can enjoy include:

  • Career building workshops
  • Parenting discussions
  • Relaxation & self-care activities
  • Socialising Emotional support
  • Health and wellness workshops

Childcare is available, but you have to register.

CLICK HERE to download our Information Flyer

Want to know more? Contact Ambreen on 96216633 or email: ambreen.kamran@sydwestms.org.au

This program is funded by the NSW Department of Communities and Justice.

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Riverlink Joins SydWest Securing the Future of Disability services in Western Sydney

Posted on | by Vikki Hine

Media Release
31 March 2025

Two of Sydney’s most trusted community organisations, Riverlink Disability Services and SydWest Multicultural Services, are coming together to strengthen and expand disability support services across the Western Sydney region.

This merger, ensures that Riverlink’s person-centred, high-quality disability support services will continue for years to come, backed by the broader resources and expertise of SydWest.

Founded in 1987 by a group of proactive parents seeking better support for their children with disabilities, Riverlink has been a pillar of care and inclusion for almost four decades. SydWest, with nearly 40 years of leadership in multicultural and community services, shares the same mission: ensuring that people, regardless of background or ability, have access to the support they need to thrive.

“Riverlink was created by families who believed in something better. That belief is why we’re here today – making sure that same mission continues for decades to come,” said JouJou Faulker, CEO of Riverlink.

For participants and their families, services will continue as usual – same staff, same care, same commitment. Riverlink will retain its name and identity while becoming a legal entity within SydWest.

SydWest CEO Elfa Moraitakis welcomed Riverlink into the SydWest family, saying:
“This merger is about building something stronger together. Riverlink’s dedication to person-centred care aligns perfectly with SydWest’s values. By joining forces, we’re ensuring that more people receive the support they need, now and into the future.”

The merger follows SydWest’s successful integration of disability services provider Participate Australia in recent years, reinforcing its commitment to growing and sustaining high-quality disability and community services in the region.

What this means for the community:

  • Continued care. Riverlink’s services and support remain unchanged.
  • Long-term stability. The merger secures the future of disability services in Western Sydney.
  • More opportunities. Over time, participants will gain access to broader services, new programs, and greater community connections.

The transition process will unfold gradually, with a “business as usual” approach to ensure continuity and stability.

Click here to download full media release

For further information or to arrange photo opportunities or interviews, contact Vikki Hine, Media and Events, SydWest Multicultural Services on vikki.hine@sydwestms.org.au or 0428-109-215.

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SydWest to celebrate Harmony Day 2025 in Blacktown – where everyone belongs!

Posted on | by Vikki Hine

Media Release
17 March 2025

SydWest Multicultural Services is proud to announce that it will be celebrating the annual Harmony Day event on Wednesday 19th March 2025 from 10am in Bowman Hall, Blacktown.

Our event will showcase the rich cultural fabric of Blacktown, bringing people together to celebrate, learn, and reflect on the importance of unity. Through engaging speakers, cultural performances, and meaningful discussions, we will highlight how our differences and shared experiences enrich our society, making Australia a better place for all.

Speakers include:

  • Om Dhungel, former refugee of Bhutan, now a very respected community leader and a strong advocate for building community and harmony
  • Roman Abasy, former refugee from Afghanistan, an international sporting champion who is passionate about how sport can bring people together
  • Clients from SydWest sharing their stories about the challenges of settling and what harmony means to them.

This event is supported by Blacktown City Council and by the Western Sydney Region Settlement Consortium. We anticipate more than 200 people to attend this event.

“It’s a day to celebrate what makes us unique and to encourage us all to belong together” said Elfa Moraitakis, CEO of SydWest Multicultural Services.

“This event is an exciting opportunity to connect with others and promote harmony in our community” she said.

“Our event will showcase the rich cultural fabric of Blacktown, bringing people together to celebrate, learn, and reflect on the importance of unity. Through engaging speakers, cultural performances, and meaningful discussions, we will highlight how our differences and shared experiences enrich our society, making Australia a better place for all” she continued.

We are encouraging everyone to wear orange and show their support for cultural diversity and inclusivity.

Orange is the designated color for Harmony Week and represents social communication, meaningful conversations, and mutual respect between people from different backgrounds. Join us in celebrating Harmony Day 2025 where Everyone Belongs!

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Media enquiries
For further information or to arrange photo opportunities or interviews, contact Vikki Hine, Media and Events, SydWest Multicultural Services on vikki.hine@sydwestms.org.au or 0428-109-215.

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Celebrating Unity and Diversity: Blacktown’s Harmony Day 2025

Posted on | by Vikki Hine

Where everyone belongs

Join us in celebrating Harmony Day 2025 where Everyone Belongs!

We’re excited to announce our annual Harmony Week celebration event on Wednesday, 19th March, starting at 10am at Bowman Hall, Blacktown.

Sponsored by Blacktown City Council, this event is a wonderful opportunity for our community to come together and celebrate the rich cultural diversity in our area. Harmony Day, celebrated on 21st March, is a special day in Blacktown where we embrace the message that ‘everyone belongs’. This day is dedicated to promoting inclusiveness, respect, and a sense of belonging for everyone.

Our celebration aims to highlight the importance of coming together to appreciate our cultural diversity. It provides a chance to reflect on how our differences and similarities make Australia a great place to live. With engaging speakers and entertaining performances, we promise a thought-provoking and enjoyable event.

We hope attendees will gain insights into how we can all contribute to ensuring everyone feels they belong in our community. Additionally, we aim to raise awareness about the challenges faced by new arrivals and the valuable contributions everyone can make towards a better society.

Join us in celebrating Harmony Day and help us spread the message of inclusiveness and unity in Blacktown!

For more information, contact info@sydwestms.org.au or Tel 9621-6633.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Wear Orange! We encourage everyone to wear orange to this event, to signify your support for cultural diversity and inclusivity, as orange is the designated color for Harmony Week. Orange represents social communication, meaningful conversations, and mutual respect between people from different backgrounds.

This event is hosted by SydWest Multicultural Services and sponsored by Blacktown City Council and supported by the Western Sydney Region Settlement Consortium.

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Western Sydney Backswing Kicks Off for 2025!

Posted on | by Vikki Hine

Employment readiness support for people with disability

We’re excited to announce the launch of the Western Sydney Backswing project! This innovative program is designed to help people with disabilities, including those from multicultural backgrounds, prepare for jobs and connect with employers.

Participants will gain valuable job skills and have the opportunity to gain work experience with local employers. The project aims to highlight the benefits of employing people with disabilities, especially those from CALD backgrounds. And the best part? It’s completely FREE!

SydWest’s Backswing commences the week of Monday 17th March, with classes scheduled across Sydney! Our main groups will be in Blacktown and Mt Druitt. Participants are excited to start soon, to learn how to become more employable, and to meet real bosses and managers!

Our VIP guests from different industries are scheduled for Friday 20th June. On that day we’ll have a performance and a meet n’ greet for our participants. It will be an exciting end, with photos, lunch, drinks and fun for all.

Want to learn more or get involved? Contact Michael Voulgaropoulos, Backswing Coordinator, at 0419 373 153 or Michael.v@sydwestms.org.au.

Click here to read more about how the Western Sydney Backswing program works.

This project is funded by the Dept. Social Services.

Story updated 13-Mar-2025

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Merry Christmas – holiday season notice

Posted on | by Vikki Hine

We wish everyone a safe and wonderful Christmas and New Year! Our offices will be closed from Monday 23 December 2024 and reo-opening on Monday, 6 January 2025.

For Aged Care: All group-based services will be on-hold while individual services will continue as scheduled. For any urgent matters concerning individual services, please contact your on-call coordinator.
Happy Holidays! 🎉

See you in 2025!