- Published:
- Thursday 17 December 2015
Two Iraqi refugee families have arrived in Victoria following the Federal Government’s commitment to accept an extra 12,000 refugees displaced by the conflicts in Syria and Iraq.
The Andrews Labor Government has welcomed their arrival and will work with the Commonwealth to ensure that people are settled successfully into the Victorian community. Approximately 4,000 people from this intake are expected to reside in Victoria.
Minister for Multicultural Affairs Robin Scott and Federal Minister for Social Services Christian Porter today visited Melbourne Zoo with the first family to arrive in Victoria under the humanitarian intake.
The children caught their first glimpse at some of Australia’s most popular wildlife, including a Kangaroo close-up encounter.
The family was the first of a small number of refugees expected to arrive in Victoria before the end of the year, with the remaining refugees arriving over a 15 to 18 month period.
Mr Scott said the Labor Government will ensure incoming refugees are provided with access to the key services required to support themselves and their families.
In addition to providing the new arrivals access to Victoria’s first class health, early childhood and education system, the government offers a range of specialised support for refugees including:
- specialised refugee health programs and counselling support
- targeted education support for refugee students and their families
- language services including interpreting and translation supports
Quotes attributable to Minister for Multicultural Affairs Robin Scott
“Victoria stands ready to work with the Federal Government to play its part in supporting refugees affected by the conflict in Syria and Iraq.”
“We will do our best to accommodate and support each and every family that calls Victoria home.”
Quotes attributable to Federal Minister for Social Services Christian Porter
“Like all refugees coming to our country, experienced case workers are helping the family settle into their new lives.”
“It is fantastic to see the family embracing Australia as their new home and being able to experience the lifestyle afforded by our beautiful country.”