Building strong cultural connections for children in care
For single mum, Linh*, becoming a foster carer has been one of the most rewarding experiences of her life.
Building relationships saw SSI’s big dream become reality
Partnership and collaboration have been in SSI’s DNA since its formation with member organisations two decades ago. It continues today with partnerships with community and corporate organisations, and SSI’s leadership in the NSW Settlement Partnership.
Unique sports-based program builds connections for newly arrived youth
In 2018, SSI merged with Access Community Services, one of Queensland’s leading organisations in settlement and transition, employment and training, social enterprise and youth service. This merger marked the beginning of a new chapter for the two organisations, enabling both to enhance operations and combine services across two states.
Global refugee youth advocate named chair of Asia Pacific Refugee Rights Network
SSI Youth Collective steering committee member and refugee advocate Arash Bordbar was elected Chair of the Asia Pacific Refugee Rights Network (APRRN) in June 2019.
20 years: The SSI Story
SSI’s history is inextricably linked to its membership base.
Enabling people with disability to live the lives they want
SSI has a rich history of providing support to and advocating for the rights of people with disability from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds.
Unlocking the benefits of regional settlement
A unique approach to regional refugee settlement is delivering strong results in the new settlement location of Armidale, offering insights that will guide other regional centres seeking to welcome newcomers as long-term members of their communities.
How a garden fostered lasting support networks for the community
Over four years of nurturing and growth, the Friendship Garden at the Auburn Centre for Community blossomed from a community engagement initiative owned and run by SSI to a community-run project.
Empowerment through the arts – for everyone
In 2014, SSI established an innovative Arts & Culture program inspired by the belief that everyone deserves the opportunity to develop their creative potential and participate meaningfully in Australia's cultural life — no matter where they come from, what language they speak, or their level of ability.
Walking together: SSI’s journey to harness the power of newcomer and First Nations communities
For the past two years, SSI has embarked on a journey of reconciliation, built on community consultation, organisational reflection, and the vision of the Uluru Statement from the Heart.
From participant to manager: how Chris found his career path
One of the best ways to excel at your job is to start from the bottom and work your way up. SSI's The Staples Bag Store Manager Chris Blackwell, knows this well.
Leading the way in LGBITQ+ workplace inclusion
In June 2020 SSI achieved a special milestone in its work around diversity and inclusion within the organisation when it was awarded Bronze Tier in the 2020 Australian LGBTQ Inclusion Awards.
From the CEO: building back better
There is a long road ahead for Australia--and indeed the world--to rebuild and recover from the devastation caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and recession.
SSI selected to deliver a multicultural service to address gambling harm in Victoria
The Minister for Gaming and Liquor Regulation, Melissa Horne, yesterday announced Settlement Services International (SSI) would deliver a new state-wide gambling harm prevention and counselling service for migrant and refugee communities.
“The more we give, the happier we feel” – SSI Volunteer Jayanthi
Immediately after moving to Australia from Sri Lanka in 2018, Jayanthi, who has more than 15 years of experience working in the Non-For-Profit (NFP) sector, began looking for opportunities to volunteer and work with Australian organisations.
Perseverance and growth: Kim’s foster care journey
When Kim* and her husband first started with SSI’s Multicultural Foster Care program, they thought they would ease themselves into foster caring with short-term care arrangements.
Perseverance and growth: Kim’s foster care journey
When Kim* and her husband first connectedwith SSI’s Multicultural Foster Care program, they thought they would ease themselves into foster caring with short-term care arrangements.
With 2020-21 Budget, Australia is building back worse not better
Settlement Services International is dismayed that Australia’s 2020-21 Budget has delivered stimulus and incentives to businesses and those on high incomes by sacrificing those most vulnerable — in Australia and overseas – to a future of destitution.
From the CEO: Beating the isolation of closed borders through community connection
COVID-19 has touched everyone around the globe, causing economies to come crashing to a halt, shut-downs to be mandated and borders to close.
Determined young refugee takes life by storm: learns English, finds casual employment and invests into future
Serina Saka arrived in Australia as a refugee from Iraq after spending four years in Lebanon with her parents and four siblings.