In 2016, Esta sought refuge in Australia after fleeing her home in Papua New Guinea, where her violent husband and other community members had put her life at risk. She made the difficult decision to leave her three children in her mother’s care to ensure their safety.
Esta began working in rural Victoria, living on a farm and fruit picking to earn money. When the cost of her living and rental payments became too much, Esta was asked to leave. She had no money, and nowhere to go.
Many asylum seekers are unable to work, access welfare or apply for supported accommodation. For many vulnerable people like Esta, our Asylum Seeker Program can be their only lifeline.
With our support, Esta now has a place to call home and is working towards a brighter future. She is also an active member of the Women’s Group. Every month the Women’s Group brings together over 60 women seeking asylum to be creative, share stories and create new friendships.
“We come together at the Women’s Group, all [from] different countries, and we forget about everything,” she said. “We go out, we eat, we learn about things. It has given me confidence.”
The Asylum Seeker Program is not government funded, and relies on support from the community.
Thank you to the Brunswick Uniting Church Congregation who showed off their best dance moves at their recent Bush Dance and raised over $4100, which will directly support people like Esta.
This story was published as part of our Spring Newsletter 2018. To read the full version please click here
