Migrant Services

 

Program Details

The Centre’s Migrant Services offers to help new or existing Migrants who live in the Bundaberg area and need assistance with settlement or general access to services by providing:

  • advice and referrals to other services and agencies
  • help with citizenship and permanent residency applications
  • support when dealing with other services and agencies
  • information sessions and workshops
  • connections to training and employment providers
  • connections to community and other social and cultural groups
  • referrals for families with children up to 5 years old to our playgroup
  • other services on request, where possible.

 

Is this for me?

To access Migrant Services, you must be:

  • a migrant, refugee or asylum seeker; or
  • on a humanitarian, refugee, or family visa, or other eligible visa; or
  • from a Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) background.

 

Harmony Wall Journey

Project timeline:

  • December 2023: Project discussed and initiated at a Bundaberg Neighbourhood Centre Multicultural Advisory Group (MAG) meeting.
  • February 2024: Project completed and unveiled at the Friendly Society Private Hospital.

Discover the Exciting Story Behind the Mural

The idea for the mural began when the Chief Executive Officer of the Friendly Society Private Hospital proposed thoughts about installing a mural painting at the hospital and the MAG members recognised it as a chance to celebrate the community’s diversity. The mural at the hospital captures Bundaberg’s rich multicultural essence.

The Bundaberg Art Society was thrilled to lend their expertise and enthusiasm to the project, with generous donations from Bunnings Bundaberg for the plywood and Taubman Paints for the vibrant paint. Migrant Services hosted an inspiring consultation meeting, where talented artists from the Art Society joined forces with over 12 representatives from vibrant cultures, including India, China, Africa, the Pacific Islands, Indonesia, and Sri Lanka. Together, they embarked on a creative journey to design a mural that celebrates their rich diversity and shared stories.

Through several dedicated sessions, artists and community representatives worked passionately to bring the mural to life. The culmination of their efforts was celebrated on February 22, 2024, during an unveiling ceremony at the hospital. The event was well attended by both the general and migrant communities and was further distinguished by the presence of the local Member for Bundaberg, making it a truly special occasion.

Fun fact:  some of the figures depicted in the artwork are inspired by real kids from Bundaberg 😊

Important partners of the project:

Multicultural communities in Bundaberg, Bundaberg Neighbourhood Centre, Bundaberg Art Society, Friendly Society Private Hospital, Bunnings Bundaberg and Taubman Paints.

 

To find out more about how the Bundaberg Neighbourhood Centre can help you, contact our friendly staff and volunteers who will connect you with a coordinator.

All Migrant services offered are supported by SETS and CAMS programs.