Assyrian Resource Centre - Assyrian Australian Association

27/06/2026

It was a privilege to attend the Refugee Week 2026 celebration and receive a copy of the inspiring book From Survival to Contribution.

The book beautifully captures the resilience, courage and achievements of refugees who have rebuilt their lives and made invaluable contributions to Australia. It is a powerful reminder that every refugee brings skills, culture, hope and strength to our communities.

Having worked alongside newly arrived migrants and refugees for many years at the Assyrian Australian Association – Assyrian Resource Centre, this message resonates deeply with me. Refugees are not defined by the challenges they have faced, but by the positive difference they continue to make.

A special acknowledgement to Atoor, who generously volunteered at the Assyrian Australian Association – Assyrian Resource Centre. Your commitment and willingness to support our community are greatly appreciated. Thank you for your dedication and for making a positive impact on the lives of others.

Thank you to everyone who contributed to this meaningful initiative. Together, we can continue building a welcoming Australia where everyone has the opportunity not only to survive, but to thrive and contribute.

Real stories. Real people. Real contribution.

26/06/2026

Today I had the pleasure of attending the Sydney Policy Lab workshop at the University of Sydney alongside Bashar Hanna.

A heartfelt thank you to the Sydney Policy Lab team for facilitating such an engaging, thought-provoking and inspiring workshop. It was a wonderful opportunity to connect with passionate community leaders, share experiences, and explore how we can strengthen belonging, inclusion and meaningful community participation.

The conversations reinforced the importance of listening to diverse voices, working collaboratively, and ensuring that communities are active partners in shaping policies and creating positive change.

Thank you once again to everyone involved for your warm hospitality and commitment to building stronger, more inclusive communities. I look forward to continuing these important conversations and future collaborations.

25/06/2026

Empowering Our Frontline Workers
Through Learning and Collaboration
Today, the Assyrian Resource Centre was pleased to host an engaging and interactive Domestic and Family Violence Workshop for our frontline staff and consortium partners, delivered in partnership with Zen Tea.
The workshop provided valuable insights into recognising, responding to, and supporting individuals experiencing domestic and family violence. Through practical activities, discussions, and shared experiences, participants strengthened their knowledge and skills to better support the communities served.

A heartfelt thank you to the team at Zen Tea for delivering such an informative, engaging, and thought-provoking session. We also thank all our staff and consortium partners for their active participation and commitment to continuous learning and improving outcomes for vulnerable members of our community.
Together, through collaboration, education, and compassion, we can help create safer and stronger communities.

24/06/2026

Funded Training Opportunity for Job Seekers! 📢

Looking to gain new skills and improve your employment opportunities?

Yalagan Registered Training (YRT) is offering funded training programs designed to help job seekers develop practical, industry-relevant skills and gain valuable workplace experience.

👷 Construction & Trade – 3 Day Training Program
Participants will receive hands-on training in:
✔️ Use of Hand and Power Tools
✔️ Operating Elevating Work Platforms
✔️ Working Safely at Heights

The training focuses on workplace safety, compliance, and practical skills that employers are looking for.

✅ Subsidised training available for eligible participants through Smart and Skilled funding.

For more information about eligibility and upcoming training opportunities, please contact YRT:

📧 [email protected]
📞 0423 009 333
🌐 www.yrt.edu.au

Please feel free to share this opportunity with anyone who

23/06/2026

Dear Community Members

Looking to improve your skills and increase your employment opportunities?

FREE Certificate I & II in Skills for Work and Vocational Pathways commencing in the first week of July 2026 at Bankstown.

✅ Laptop provided
✅ No cost to eligible learners
✅ Build reading, writing, digital and workplace skills
✅ Improve confidence and job readiness
✅ Pathway to further study and employment

8 Featherstone Street, Bankstown
02 9791 0015

Places are limited. Contact the provider today to check your eligibility and enrol.

23/06/2026

Today I had the pleasure of attending the launch of the Family Relationship Centre in Fairfield.

It was wonderful to learn more about the valuable services and support available to individuals, couples and families in our community. Strong families are the foundation of strong communities, and initiatives such as this play an important role in helping people navigate challenges, strengthen relationships and access the support they need.

Thank you to everyone involved in bringing this important service to our region. I look forward to seeing the positive impact it will have on families across Western Sydney.

18/06/2026

Seniors Health & Wellbeing Session

Today, our Seniors Group had the pleasure of attending an informative health and wellbeing session facilitated by our dedicated Seniors Group Facilitator, Marlin Shawool.

A sincere thank you to Mr Paul Gorgees from Multicultural Health Services for delivering an engaging and valuable presentation, providing important health information and practical advice to support the wellbeing of our senior community.

These sessions play an important role in empowering our seniors with knowledge, encouraging healthy lifestyles, and creating opportunities for social connection and community engagement.

Thank you to all our seniors who attended and participated in the discussion. Your enthusiasm and commitment to staying informed and connected is truly inspiring.

💙 Together, we continue to build a healthier, stronger, and more connected community.

17/06/2026

🌴☀️ Gold Coast Seniors Retreat ☀️🌴

Our seniors have returned home with wonderful memories, new friendships, and joyful experiences after a successful retreat to the beautiful Gold Coast.

This special getaway provided an opportunity for our seniors to relax, socialise, explore new places, and enjoy quality time together in a warm and supportive environment. Seeing the smiles, laughter, and connections formed throughout the trip was truly heartwarming.

On behalf of the Assyrian Australian Association, we extend our sincere appreciation to our dedicated Seniors Facilitator, Marlin Shawool, for her ongoing commitment, care, and support of our seniors. Your hard work, compassion, and dedication continue to enrich the lives of so many older members of our community.

We would also like to thank our seniors for their wonderful participation and enthusiasm, which made this retreat such a memorable and successful experience.

At the Assyrian Australian Association, we remain committed to supporting the wellbeing, social inclusion, and active engagement of our seniors, ensuring they continue to enjoy opportunities to connect, learn, and thrive.

❤️ With gratitude to everyone who helped make this retreat possible.

17/06/2026

🌏💙 Refugee Week 2026 💙🌏

Today, we celebrate Refugee Week and recognise the strength, courage, and resilience of refugees who have rebuilt their lives and enriched our communities across Australia.

As someone who works closely with newly arrived migrants and refugees, I have witnessed firsthand the determination, hope, and valuable contributions they bring to our society. Refugees are not only survivors of hardship and displacement; they are community leaders, business owners, workers, volunteers, students, and proud Australians who strengthen the social fabric of our nation.

This week is an opportunity to reflect on the importance of compassion, inclusion, and providing opportunities for those seeking safety and a new beginning.

Let us continue to welcome, support, and empower refugee families as they build brighter futures for themselves and future generations.

Together, we can create communities where everyone belongs.

16/06/2026