​​About the program​​​​

The Humanitarian Settlement Program (HSP) supports humanitarian entrants and other eligible visa holders during their initial settlement. It helps new arrivals integrate into Australian life by building the skills and knowledge they need to become self-reliant and active members of the community.

The program has a strong focus on helping clients to learn English, gain employment and access education and training.

Support

Support is delivered to clients using an individualised case management approach tailored to their needs, strengths and goals. The types of support clients receive may include:

• airport reception
• short-term accommodation
• referral to mainstream and specialist support services
• connections to local community groups and activities
• assistance to find long-term accommodation
• help to learn English, gain employment and access education and training
• orientation to Australia, including our values and laws.

Clients with complex settlement needs are provided with additional case management support, known as Specialised and Intensive Services.

HSP service providers can also facilitate the lodgement of applications for the Free Translating Service (FTS) for eligible FTS clients who are unable to lodge online.

Most clients exit the HSP after receiving support for between six to 18 months.

Eligibility

People granted one of the following visas are eligible to access the HSP on their arrival in Australia:

• Refugee (subclass 200, 201, 203 and 204) visa
• Global Special Humanitarian (subclass 202) visa*
  

Other visa holders are also eligible to access the HSP, but only to receive Specialised and Intensive Services.

Austr​alian Citizens are not eligible for the HSP.​

*Individuals granted a subclass 202 visa under the Community Support Program (CSP) are ineligible to access support under the HSP on their arrival in Australia as they receive settlement services from their Approved Proposing Organisation. Subject to the approval of the Department, CSP entrants may be eligible to receive Specialised and Intensive Services.

Refer yourself or someone you know for support

Individuals or families who have complex settlement needs may be eligible to receive assistance under the HSP's Specialised and Intensive Services​. For more information about how to make a referral, see Specialised and Intensive Services.