Media Centre

The strength of the human spirit outweighs a harsh reality for asylum seekers

Publish Date: 23/04/2010
Author: Marketing & Communications Dept.

For asylum seekers at the final stage of their application for a Protection Visa, awaiting a decision from the Minister for Immigration and Citizenship is a long and daunting process.

While waiting for an outcome on their visa application, many of these asylum seekers have no right to work or volunteer and have no access to Medicare or Centrelink. Without community support, they would be homeless and unable to afford food.

But despite these difficult circumstances, the asylum seekers that Baptcare supports through Sanctuary show incredible strength and resilience.

Naser* arrived at Sanctuary in August 2009, having become homeless with no income or means to pay for accommodation. He was funded by his family to travel to Australia as a lone minor to complete his secondary education. As Naser’s family could only afford one year of secondary education, Naser had to leave school in 2008, having only completed Year 11.

Determined to complete his secondary studies, Naser approached Sanctuary.

Sanctuary’s Caseworkers helped Naser to research his options in regards to obtaining a scholarship and advocated on his behalf.

Thankfully, with the support of Baptcare, Naser was successful in securing a place at a local school without having to pay school fees.

The school has ensured that Naser will be supported throughout the year while completing his secondary school education.

“This is definitely a mini victory for Naser. Not only will Naser be able to attend high school and hopefully complete his VCE education, joining a school community will provide a constant source of support and will keep Naser’s mind active whilst the Minister for Immigration and Citizenship considers his case.

“Baptcare will continue to support Naser, which will include the purchase of a desk and chair to assist him to study in a suitable environment,” said Joel Bouman, Sanctuary Caseworker.

Despite the stress and adversity that Naser has faced, he has managed to successfully complete numerous English language courses and is now fluent in the language. Naser hopes to attend university in the near future.

Baptcare will continue to support Naser while he awaits the outcome of his visa application in the hope that he can realise his dream of acquiring a higher education.

Naser is one example of the way Baptcare seeks to ignite the flame of human vitality, by working with individuals to strengthen their spirit and help them become resilient and empowered.

*Name changed to protect privacy.