By Mij Tanith (for Circle 108)
At the beginning of 2023, a group of us took on the task of bringing an Afghan family to Australia. As the mother has no relatives in Australia, the only visa option available at the time was under the Federal Community Support Program.
Here’s what we had to do, once we had agreed to help this family:
1. Form a Group
Members ideally should offer a wide range of skills including IT knowledge, networking, writing, publicity and promotion, liaising with the public and with your Approved Organisation, and of course fundraising. Usually groups of between 5 and 7 work well.
2. Find an approved organisation to oversee the process
We used Settlement Services International in Sydney. There were both advantages and disadvantages in this choice, but ultimately, the outcome was successful. The Australian Migrant Resource Centre in Adelaide, also runs CSPs and is currently accepting expressions of interest. I think it might be easier for people to work with a local organisation rather than one based interstate.
3. Find an assurer of support
Someone prepared to underwrite all the financial support the visa holder(s) will need in their first 12 months in Australia. This sounds daunting, but if sufficient funds are raised, then this individual will never have to pay out.
4. Fundraise. Fundraise. Fundraise
Be creative. Organise and promote events that engage the imagination and attract new audiences.
5. Maintain close contact with the people you are hoping to bring to Australia
What has worked well with our group is having one person responsible for frequent, if not daily, contact on WhatsApp, as two-way communication is vital in providing close support and keeping every step of the process really clear.
6. Be prepared for setbacks, delays, at times a high level of frustration.
7. Reach out to politicians when there is need. This can work wonders.
8. Finally, be prepared for something that will enrich your lives beyond your wildest dreams; the time and effort you’ll put in will be well rewarded.
For more information contact Mij Tanith.