Tag: community

sanctuar

SydWest Proudly Supports the Launch of Sanctuary Runners Australia

Posted on | 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.

Media Release ALP Win Elfa image 2025

SydWest congratulates ALP on win

Posted on | by Vikki Hine

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.

sydWest harmony day 2024 image 04

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.