Helping Refugees Refugee stories

Refugee stories

Everyone who comes to Australia has a story to tell. Read and watch personal stories from refugees and community members who are supporting them. While each story is unique, some experiences, needs and feelings are shared by everyone embarking on the settlement journey.

This page contains personal stories from refugees and the community members who are committed to supporting them. Go to our Get Involved page for more information on how you can help.

• Meet AminaA refugee from Syria who, as a grandmother, volunteers by teaching other refugees English and is studying at university.
• Meet AnitaA community member passionate about meeting refugees and helping them make connections in their new communities.
• Meet ArefThanks to a stranger's kindness and support, Aref’s life changed course forever. You can help young refugees like Aref by supporting programmes that encourage them to participate in sports and other activities.
• Meet DarwichA recently arrived refugee from Syria who has started to build his new life in Newcastle.
• Meet EvelynMy name is Evelyn. I lived in a refugee camp, on the Thailand and Burma border. When I lived in my village, the Burmese soldiers came and burned it. They destroyed all.
• Meet HomaA refugee from Afghanistan who is working towards becoming a cardiologist.
• Meet IsaacA young refugee from South Sudan who found a sense of belonging through sport and the help of his coach.
• Meet PadamYou can help refugees and migrants like Padam get back on their feet by assisting with training or offering work experience or employment opportunities.
• Meet SaraA refugee from Iraq who is committed to giving back and helping other refugees and migrants build their new lives in Australia.
• Meet ShafighehYou can help people like Shafigheh to build a new life in Australia by volunteering at a Community Hub or providing philanthropic support.