Humanitatian Settlement Services (HSS) provide intensive settlement support to newly-arrived humanitarian clients throughout their initial settlement period, up to one year, through a coordinated case management approach. HSS provides refugee families and individuals with a range of services and support. The service delivery is tailored to address client needs, in a program designed to strengthen the client’s ability to participate in the economic and social life of Australia. It aims to equip them with the skills and knowledge to independently access services beyond the initial settlement period.
Over the past 12 months, Diversitat has assisted over 250 newly arrived refugees to settle in Geelong. These families have come from a variety of countries and cultures including Iraq, Burma, Afghanistan, Liberia and the Sudan. The majority of these people arrive having experienced significant trauma and conflict in their country of origin.
WHAT’S INVOLVED
Within two days of arrival, Diversitat staff initiate contact with the refugee family/individual and ensure that their accommodation and basic needs are being met. When working with clients, the Community Guides who understand the culture and speak the language, play an important role. The Case Manager develops a case management plan which includes visits to Centrelink, a medical checkup, school enrolment, referral to English classes, securing a property lease, the use of public transport and a range of other services.
The orientation program is delivered early in settlement and is complimented with every day efforts by community guides, to assist clients in preparing for their life in Australia. Once clients are referred to major services, are in long term accommodation and have gained major competencies in respect to various aspects of life in the new country, they are seamlessly transferred to Diversitat’s other settlement programs.
The HSS program is funded by the Department of Social Services.
