SydWest Multicultural Services and Western Sydney MRC, both members of the Western Sydney Region Settlement Consortium, are proud to announce its upcoming advocacy event, aimed at championing an increase in Australia’s refugee intake and enhancing the resettlement experience for migrants and refugees.
The event, set to take place on 17th June at West HQ will bring together community leaders, peak bodies, policymakers, and advocates to drive meaningful discussions and push for positive change.
With global displacement increasing year after year, Australia has a unique opportunity to strengthen its commitment to humanitarian support.
This event will shine a spotlight on Australia’s refugee response compared to other nations and the challenges refugees face upon arrival, while presenting solutions to their inclusion and belonging.
The event will feature speakers from SBS, SSI, Refugee Council of Australia and UNSW, some of whom were refugees themselves.
Attendees will have the chance to engage with policymakers and stakeholders, reinforcing the call for increased intake and a more compassionate and structured support system.
“This event is a crucial step toward ensuring Australia remains a leader in humanitarian action,” said Clement Meru, Settlement and Community Services manager at SydWest. “By advocating for an improved resettlement experience, we aim to empower refugees and build a stronger, more inclusive society.”
Members of the public, media, and key decision-makers are encouraged to attend and take part in shaping the future of refugee support in Australia.
Training that connects workers to their community and fits around their jobs
Lucia Uriona arrived in Australia from Argentina in 1971. Her family, of Italian heritage, relocated for her father’s work and settled on a farm, far from the city life they knew.
“Everything was new. I spoke only a little English, so I had to start from scratch,” Lucia recalls.
Years later, while watching carers from SydWest Multicultural Services support her ageing mother, Lucia found her calling.
“They were kind, respectful. I thought—maybe I can do that too.”
SydWest Multicultural Services provides quality approved aged care services to assist people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds to live independently – at home and within the community.
“It was perfect – just one day a week. I could keep working with SydWest while learning,” she says.
Mereline Murimwa-Rarami, Sydwest Aged Care Services Manager, shares her thoughts:
Mereline Murimwa-Rarami
“Macquarie Community College provides flexible training arrangements that allow our care staff to continue working while upskilling. This means SydWest can maintain uninterrupted service delivery to our clients, which is essential.
We’ve received positive feedback from SydWest care staff who have completed training with the College. We’ve also noticed an improvement in their performance, which tells us the training is both practical and effective.”
At Macquarie Community College, Lucia experienced hands-on training, not just theory.
“They teach differently. We practised real skills; things I use every day.
When you’re working, you don’t always realise the impact you have. Studying helped me see that what we do really matters.”
Learning, Friendship, and Ongoing Growth
Lucia’s learning journey brought more than skills – it gave her community.
“I made lovely friends during the course. I’m a big talker, and we all connected. We still keep in touch!”
Her trainer, Jas Khanooja, made a lasting impression.
“He explained everything so well. He really knows his stuff.”
With continued support from SydWest team, Lucia continues learning through in-house training like Dementia care.
“The Sydwest team offered so much. I love learning – it keeps me fresh, motivated, and connected to my community.”
Heather Hill, Community Services Lead at Macquarie Community College commented:
Heather Hill
Lucia’s story is truly inspiring – a powerful reminder of how meaningful and fulfilling a career in aged care can be, especially when grounded in empathy, cultural understanding, and a commitment to lifelong learning.
I’m so proud of the way SydWest and Macquarie Community College collaborate to support individuals in not only growing professionally but also finding purpose and connection.
Aged Care Career Is Where Lucia Belongs
Lucia isn’t thinking of slowing down anytime soon. Despite suggestions from her sister to retire, she’s staying put.
“I feel so comfortable in this job. I love the seniors – they’re beautiful people. Understanding their culture, their stories – that’s so important.”
For Lucia, aged care isn’t about money:
“You do this work for people. A kind word goes a long way. We all need that. When we retire, we can’t just sit at home. Aged care is a great way to keep going and do something meaningful.”
Inspired by Lucia? Start Your Own Aged Care Journey!
Whether you’re just starting out or looking to build on your experience, Macquarie Community College offers flexible, practical Aged Care courses. With trusted partners like SydWest Multicultural Services, you’ll be supported to grow, connect, and thrive.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
