RISE

RISE (Refugees, Survivors and Ex-Detainees) is a not-for-profit incorporated association. RISE exists to assist refugees, survivors of war, migrants and ex-detainees from around the world to meet their needs in Australia. RISE advocates on its member’s behalf to improve government refugee policies and to generate positive social change. RISE undertakes projects that benefit the welfare of refugees, survivors of war and ex-detainees in Australia.

RISE supports the creation of sustainable community development and welfare programs that improve on the services provided by existing community welfare organizations by soliciting extensive input and advice from refugees and ex-detainees. Managed, developed and run by people from a refugee background who have first hand experience of settling in Australia, RISE supports new arrivals as well as people who have been struggling in the community for some time.

RISE operates a drop-in-centre in the inner city as a hub to provide a variety of support services. It focuses on engaging isolated members of the community through events and art projects and in doing so, also offers connecting settlement services such as driving, medical, legal, employment and educational support.

Despite the fact that RISE was only recently incorporated this year, it has already attracted a huge membership and network base amongst the refugee community from diverse backgrounds including Asia, the Pacific Islands, Africa and the Middle East. RISE is the first organisation in Australia of its kind and it is unique in offering a direct and heartfelt response to the needs of its commuity.