Upcoming Sessions for Multicultural Road Safety Program: Empowering Safer Communities

Posted on 07/05/2026 | by Vikki Hine

SydWest Multicultural Services continues to deliver vital Multicultural Road Safety Information Sessions throughout 2026, helping our diverse communities stay informed and safe.

These sessions cover key road safety topics, including:

Child Car Seat Restraint and Education
Helping Learner Drivers become Safer Drivers
Driving for Older Road Users
Older Pedestrian Safety

To ensure these sessions are accessible to everyone, we offer them in multiple languages such as Dari, Farsi, Urdu, Punjabi, Tamil, and Tagalog. Sessions are held at various locations across the Blacktown LGA, including Toongabbie, Glenwood, Blacktown, and Mt Druitt.

Upcoming Sessions

Child Care Seat Restraint – Information Session

✅ Language: Tagalog
📅 Date: Monday, Friday 15 May 2026 | Time 11am-12pm
📍 Location: Altrove Hilltop Park, Schofields.

Older People Pedestrian Safety – Information Session

✅ Language: English (Multicultural)
📅 Date: Friday, 22 May 2026 | Time 10-11am
📍 Location: Glenwood Community Hub

Helping Drivers Become Safer Drivers Information Session

✅ Language: Arabic
📅 Date: Monday, Friday 22 May 2026 | Time 11am-12pm
📍 Location: SydWest Blacktown

Understanding road safety and your responsibilities is essential for all road users. These sessions are designed to help you make safety a priority – every time you drive or walk.

Interested in attending?
Contact Saurav or Sonia at info@sydwestms.org.au or call (02) 9621 6633 to learn more and reserve your spot.

Updated 7-May-2026

SydWest Appoints Nazia Ahmed as Head of Disability Support

Posted on 04/05/2026 | by Vikki Hine

Media Release

SydWest Multicultural Services is pleased to announce the appointment of Nazia Ahmed as its new Head of Disability Support, reinforcing the organisation’s leadership capability and ongoing commitment to delivering high‑quality, person‑centred disability services.

Nazia brings more than 16 years of experience in the disability sector, with extensive expertise in service delivery, operational leadership and quality improvement. She spent 13 years with Sunnyhaven Disability Services, where she held a range of senior roles across customer relations, property management, Supported Independent Living (SIL), and support coordination. Her career also includes experience as an Interim Chief Executive Officer, demonstrating her capacity to lead complex services and multidisciplinary teams.

Since joining SydWest six months ago within the Quality, Risk and Compliance team, Nazia has made a significant contribution to strengthening governance, embedding best practice and supporting continuous improvement across service delivery. Her appointment as Head of Disability Support recognises her deep sector knowledge, collaborative leadership style and ability to enhance standards.

In her new role, Nazia will focus on streamlining processes, strengthening consistency and quality across NDIS services, and supporting the continued growth of SydWest’s reputation as a trusted provider of high‑quality and people-centred disability support.

Commenting on her appointment, Nazia said she is looking forward to building on the strong foundations already in place. “This role allows me to draw on my experience and passion for best practice to make a meaningful impact. I am committed to ensuring we deliver quality services, every time.”

Born in Australia to parents from Fiji, Nazia brings a strong sense of community connection to her work and maintains close ties to the communities SydWest serves. SydWest congratulates Nazia on her appointment, which further highlights SydWest’s commitment to investing in strategic leadership personnel.

4-May-2026

Turn your bottles into support for your community ♻️💙

Posted on 29/04/2026 | by Vikki Hine

Recycling is good for everyone!

Did you know that SydWest is part of the NSW Return and Earn Recycling Program, making it easy to give back while reducing waste.

When you recycle your eligible bottles and cans, you can choose to donate your refund directly to SydWest Multicultural Services — supporting programs that strengthen and empower our diverse communities.

👉 How it works:

Take your eligible containers to a Return and Earn machine
Select Donate to a Charity
Scan the SydWest barcode
Your refund helps support SydWest’s community services 🌏

Every bottle counts. Together, we can care for the environment and support our community at the same time.

More information and to find your local recycling outlet, visit Return and Earn NSW Find Locations and Recycling Information at https://mytomra.com.au/nsw/

RETURNANDEARN Sydwest Multicultural Services Barcode — Turn your bottles into support for your community ♻️💙 5

Free Cooking Program Kicks Off for Blacktown Women This April

Posted on 20/04/2026 | by Vikki Hine

SydWest Multicultural Services is excited to announce the launch of a free 6-week cooking and nutrition program for women in Blacktown, starting Thursday 30 April 2026.

Delivered through OzHarvest’s NEST Program, the sessions will run every Thursday from 10.00am to 12.30pm at SydWest Multicultural Services, Ground Floor, Suite 1, 125 Main Street, Blacktown.

Designed to be practical, friendly and welcoming, the program teaches participants how to prepare easy, healthy and affordable meals – no cooking experience required. Each session includes nutrition activities, group cooking and sharing a meal together, all in a relaxed and supportive environment.

The program is completely free, with childcare available for those who need it (bookings essential).

To register or find out more, contact Ambreen on 9621-6633 or email ambreen.kamran@sydwestms.org.au.

SydWest Celebrates Harmony Day 2026 with Community Event

Posted on 18/03/2026 | by Vikki Hine

SydWest Multicultural Services will bring the community together this March with a vibrant Harmony Day 2026 Community Celebration, proudly embracing the national message that Everyone Belongs.

The free community event will be held on Thursday 26 March 2026, from 10:30am to 1:00pm, at Bowman Hall, Blacktown, and will celebrate the rich cultural diversity of Western Sydney.

The celebration will feature guest speakers, cultural performances, children’s activities, and opportunities for community connection, with refreshments provided. Community members are encouraged to wear orange as a show of support for inclusiveness, respect, and belonging.

SydWest recognises Harmony Day as an opportunity to reinforce our ongoing commitment to building inclusive communities, challenging racism, and supporting people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.

Registrations are now open, and community members, families, and stakeholders are warmly invited to attend. To register, visit the Eventbrite link or contact SydWest at info@sydwestms.org.au for more information.

Published 18-Mar-2026

SydWest Proudly Supports the Launch of Sanctuary Runners Australia

Posted on 11/03/2026 | by Vikki Hine

SydWest is excited to support Sanctuary Runners Australia, a new 2026 initiative that brings people of all backgrounds together through running, walking and jogging to foster solidarity, friendship and a sense of belonging. This free, volunteer led movement is designed to connect newly arrived refugees, migrants and people seeking asylum with longer term residents, strengthening community cohesion and wellbeing.

The first Australian Sanctuary Runners group is launching right here in Western Sydney, supported by the Refugee Council of Australia and a growing network of community organisations. SydWest is proud to be part of this collaborative effort to create welcoming, inclusive spaces where community members can come together through movement.

Join the First Run – 21 March 2026
We encourage our community, partners and supporters to join the first Western Sydney run on 21 March 2026 and be part of this uplifting, community building movement. All fitness levels are welcome—run, jog or walk alongside others who believe in inclusion and connection.

Sign Up Today
Register at refugeecouncil.org.au/sanctuary-runners-australia
All participants receive a free Sanctuary Runners blue shirt.

Together, let’s help build a more connected, welcoming Western Sydney—one step at a time.

WSRSC and SSI Amplify Voices on International Women’s Day

Posted on 10/03/2026 | by Vikki Hine

9 March 2026 – Event Alert

Western Sydney Region Settlement Consortium and SSI to host ‘Silence to Power’ event at Park Royal Parramatta for International Women’s Day 2026
Event aims to celebrate refugee and multicultural women’s strength and leadership, bringing together government and community leaders
Female artists will showcase art as a form of expression, alongside facilitated discussions with multicultural women leaders
Event emphasises the journey from silence to empowerment for refugee and migrant women

The Western Sydney Region Settlement Consortium (WSRSC) and SSI, with the support of 2M Language Services, will host Silence to Power: Amplifying Voices for Justice today (9th March) at Park Royal Parramatta. This International Women’s Day 2026 event will honour the strength, resilience, and leadership of refugee and multicultural women, bringing together leaders from government, councils, not‑for‑profit organisations, and community groups. The event recognises the profound journeys many women undertake as they move from silence to empowerment.

Clement Meru, Settlement and Community Engagement Manager at SydWest Multicultural Services, said: “International Women’s Day calls us to recognise not only the achievements of women, but also the barriers many continue to face. The stories we are honouring today remind us that silence is never the end of the journey. When women are supported, believed, and empowered, their voices become catalysts for justice and transformation. At the WSRSC, we remain committed to ensuring every woman has the opportunity to shape her own future.”

Yamamah Agha, General Manager – Newcomers, Settlement and Integration at SSI, said: “The courage of refugee women inspires us to reflect deeply on our responsibility as leaders, as institutions, and as a community. Their lived experiences strengthen our resolve to build systems that are safe, inclusive, and responsive to the realities faced by women from refugee and migrant backgrounds. ‘Silence to Power’ is not just an event – it is a reaffirmation of our collective commitment to dignity, equality, and the enduring power of women’s voices.”

The event will feature a group of talented female artists demonstrating how art can serve as a powerful form of voice and expression. In addition, a facilitated conversation with multicultural women leaders will invite audience participation and explore themes such as the role of community, the authority of lived experience, and claiming leadership in the face of barriers. At the heart of the event is Amera Ali, who will share her courageous journey toward renewed purpose.

END

SydWest celebrates International Women’s Day with powerful call to ‘Balance the Scales’

Posted on 05/03/2026 | by Vikki Hine

Thursday 5 March 2026

SydWest Multicultural Services will host its 2026 International Women’s Day celebration this Friday 6 March at the Glenwood Community Hub, bringing together community members, leaders and performers to honour women’s strength, resilience and leadership across Western Sydney.

This year’s global theme, Balance the Scales, will shape an afternoon of storytelling, culture and conversation focused on inclusion, belonging and the ongoing work to accelerate gender equality—particularly for women from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds.

SydWest CEO Elfa Moraitakis said this year’s theme resonates deeply with the organisation’s mission and the communities it supports:

“Balancing the scales means more than talking about equality; it means building structures where every woman, in all her diversity, can thrive. At SydWest, we see daily the strength, courage and leadership of women from migrant and refugee backgrounds. Empowering them strengthens entire families, strengthens communities, and ultimately strengthens our society. We’re proud to honour that power today.”

The event will be hosted by renowned media personality Susie Elelman, with a Welcome to Country by Aunty Christine of the Deerubbin Local Aboriginal Land Council.

Attendees will hear keynote insights from Captain Mona Shindy CSC, a recognised national advocate for diversity and social cohesion, a decorated Australian Navy captain, a Muslim woman, and a senior professional who has spent decades serving Australia. Her address, Balance the Scales: Diversity, Social Cohesion, Fostering Inclusion, Belonging and Inspiring Positive Change, will explore the systems and attitudes that must shift to create a more equitable Australia.

Additional highlights include cultural performances by the Ah Chong Sisters Pacific Dancers, a spoken-word performance by poet Richa Gautam, and the premiere of Emie Roy’s short film, Lines, Life, Art, which celebrates women’s artistic expression and lived experience as Kolam and Rangoli practitioners in Australia.

Blacktown City Mayor Brad Bunting will also deliver an opening address, recognising the vital contributions of women across the region.

With more than 120 community members expected, the event will conclude with a grazing table and networking opportunities.

CLICK HERE to download the full Media Release

We’re Hiring: Be the Difference and become a Disability Support Worker

Posted on 05/02/2026 | by Vikki Hine

At SydWest Multicultural Services, we believe that every act of support has the power to change a life. Whether it’s helping a young child build confidence, supporting a person with disability to achieve their daily goals, or simply being a steady presence when someone needs it most – our Support Workers make a meaningful difference every single day.

And we’re hiring Disability Support Workers across our community.
No experience? No problem. What we value most is heart, reliability, and a genuine passion for helping people live independently and thrive.

💛 Why You’ll Love Working With Us

Joining SydWest means becoming part of a team that genuinely values and supports you. Here’s what you can expect:

Flexible hours that fit your lifestyle – Work in a way that suits your commitments, family needs, or study schedule.
Qualifications and Experience preferred – but we can provide full training if required. We equip you with everything you need to feel confident and capable in your role.
Competitive pay and ongoing development – Grow your skills, take on new challenges and build a long-term career.
Inclusive, multicultural team culture – Be part of a supportive workplace where colleagues lift each other up.
Work that matters – Every shift has purpose. Every day, you help someone achieve something that matters to them.

About the Role

As a Disability Support Worker, you will:

Support clients to live independently
Assist with personal care, community access, and daily activities
Build meaningful relationships with participants and their families
Work alongside a team that is always ready to support you
No two days are the same — and that’s what makes this work so rewarding.

Be the Difference in Someone’s Life — Every Day

If you’re looking for meaningful work, a supportive team, and the chance to build a rewarding career, we’d love to hear from you.

👉 Apply today and help shape a brighter future for people with disability.
Visit: https://sydwestms.org.au/careers

Free Energy & Water Bill Support Coming to Blacktown

Posted on 20/01/2026 | by Vikki Hine

Are rising energy and water costs causing you stress? Help is at hand for Blacktown residents and small businesses.

SydWest Multicultural Services is pleased to announce that the Energy & Water Ombudsman NSW (EWON) will be visiting our Blacktown office on the last Friday of each month to provide free, expert assistance with energy and water issues.

What Support is Available?

EWON’s specialist staff will be on hand to help you with:

Understanding your bills and charges
Checking your eligibility for energy and water rebates
Resolving complaints about your energy or water provider
Negotiating payment plans with retailers
Organising rebates and concessions
Providing practical tips to reduce your energy and water usage

Upcoming Sessions

Mark your calendar for these upcoming Help Hub sessions:

Thursday, 30 January 2026 | 10am – 2pm
Thursday, 27 February 2026 | 10am – 2pm
Thursday, 27 March 2026 | 10am – 2pm

What to Bring

To make the most of your appointment, please bring:

Your concession card (if applicable)
Copies of your latest energy and water bills
Any correspondence from your retailers

Book your appointment

Sessions are by appointment only. To secure your spot, call SydWest Multicultural Services on 02 9621 6633. Interpreters are available upon request.

Location: SydWest Multicultural Services, Level 2, 125 Main St, Blacktown

Don’t struggle with bill stress alone – our team and EWON are here to help you find solutions.

More information at https://sydwestms.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Help-Hub-A4_poster_V2-EWON.pdf

Published: January 2026