NSW Gov
On World Refugee Day, the Minns Labor Government has announced the creation of the NSW Settlement Advisory Council to improve the settlement experience for people from refugee and refugee-like backgrounds living across the state.
The Council - NSW's first - will be chaired by Professor Peter Shergold AC, the NSW Coordinator General for Settlement.
It will put refugees and people at the heart of policy and process, working to ensure a smoother settlement experience and a better connection to services in their new NSW home.
The Council will provide expert advice and policy support to Multicultural NSW, while championing the NSW Settlement Strategy.
A formal consultative mechanism to Minister for Multiculturalism Steve Kamper and Multicultural NSW, the Council will focus on:
- complex settlement policy challenges and targeting improvements
- contributing to the success and evaluation of the NSW Settlement Strategy
- ensuring a coordinated, whole-of-government approach to delivering settlement services
- identifying opportunities for better alignment between the NSW and federal governments on settlement.
The CEO of Multicultural NSW will soon appoint the members of the Council with an announcement to follow.
Multicultural NSW provides independent advice to the NSW Government on settlement-related issues. The NSW Settlement Strategy brings together new and existing government programs to improve the lives of people coming to NSW through humanitarian programs.
The strategy is informed by the lived experience of refugee communities in NSW.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Multiculturalism Steve Kamper:
"This announcement builds on the fantastic work we've done through the NSW Settlement Strategy.
"A first of its kind, the NSW Settlement Advisory Council is illustrative of the Minns Labor government's commitment to improving the lives of different people and communities across our state.
"The Council will hold this state to account in supporting people seeking safety and a new start in our great state and ensure refugees start their new beginnings on the right foot.
"I look forward to the valuable work of the Council under the strong leadership of Professor Shergold."
Quotes attributable to CEO of Multicultural NSW Joseph La Posta:
"People from refugee backgrounds have made an enormous contribution to our vibrant multicultural state.
"This is a significant step forward in improving our response in NSW so these communities can thrive.
"The formation of this Council ensures the government's approach to settlement is continually improving-guided by real insights and lived experiences."
Quotes attributable to Professor Peter Shergold AC:
"A key focus of the Council will be to create stronger collaboration with the Australian Government, and other states and territories we're working with to drive better outcomes.
"By bringing all these pieces together, we can create better opportunities for refugees to find their feet and become full and active participants in our community.
"This is great for everyone - refugees can realise their potential, and the people of NSW benefit from their skills and expertise."
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