The Cabrini Asylum Seeker and Refugee Health Hub is a signatory to a recent letter to Premier Daniel Andrews from the Network of Asylum Seeker Agencies Victoria (NASAVic) asking for support in the face of the removal of support for people seeking asylum.
Up to 4000 people in Victoria will be affected by the Federal Government’s decision to change the Status Resolution Support Services (SRSS) program that provides basic support to people seeking asylum while their claim in being processed.
“The areas of greatest concern are how people will be able to pay their rent and utility bills, buy food and other necessities and find work when the support is withdrawn,” said Cabrini Chief Executive Dr Michael Walsh.
NASAVic members have planned a sector-wide response in collaboration with mainstream welfare services, local councils and other organisations. However, Dr Walsh says that “most agencies are already stretched beyond capacity.
The letter calls on additional support from the State Government to avert the preventable humanitarian crisis that is about to unfold on our streets and in our communities.
“At the same time, we are exploring other services Cabrini Outreach can offer to meet the escalating need,” said Dr Walsh.
Donate to our asylum seeker health appeal or contact cabrinioutreach@cabrini.com.au to find out how you can help.
For further information, see: https://www.refugeecouncil.org.au/takeaction/roofovermyhead-resources/