Men's Sheds
Men’s Sheds are a great place to connect, make friends and learn new skills.
Where/when: Various locations/time
Find a shed HERE.
Most recently added
Newest events
Native Plant Giveaway October 2025
Cumberland City Council is giving away 1000 beautiful native plants to local residents.
When: Sunday 5 October 2025 from 9am to 3pm
Where: Auburn Botanic Gardens
Register HERE.
Job fair
Join the upcoming Job Fair for People Seeking Asylum, Refugees and Migrants.
Participants will have the chance to:
-Meet with employers
-Apply for jobs
-Learn training programs and support services
When: 29 August 2025, 10am to 2:30pm
Where: SSI Level 19, 60 Station Parramatta
For more information and bookings click HERE.
Organised by Asylum Seekers Centre
Activities at ASC Newtown
Community Lunch
Delicious and healthy hot lunches are available in Newtown on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays at 12:30pm.
Catch up with old friends and make new ones.
Sewing classes
Fun and simple sewing classes | All supplies provided | Bring something to fix or your own project
When/Where: Every Friday 1230pm – 2.30pm. Upstairs at ASC Newtown
Centre Support Services
Help with everyday needs like transport, forms and technology. See all help options here.
The desk is currently open Mondays to Fridays from 10am to 2pm.
***Starting from 1 September the Centre Support Volunteers at Newtown will be available:
Monday to Wednesday from 10AM to 4PM
Thursday to Friday from 10AM to 2PM
Arts and crafts sessions
Do you want to do some drawing, painting or other creative projects? Join our relaxing weekly art projects!
When: Every Wednesday 1pm – 2.30pm
Where: Upstairs at ASC Newtown
Book a spot by emailing ce.events@asylumseekerscentre.org.au More information HERE.
ASC English classes
Learn English at Auburn and Newtown. We can tell you about other places too. Classes for beginners to advanced students.
For more information and to book email: ce.events@asylumseekerscentre.org.au
LGBTQIA+ Peer Group
The ASC provides a safe space for LGBTQIA+ clients to connect socially through regular events, dinners, and guest speakers.
For more information you can contact our LGBTQIA+ Community Coordinator via this email.
Organised by Asylum Seekers Centre
Activities at Auburn Community Centre Hub
Community Lunch
Delicious and healthy lunches at the Auburn Community Centre.
Wednesdays at 12:30pm.
Women's Afternoon
Activities for women including workshops, sewing, cooking and fun. Childcare is provided. You do not have to children to attend.
Every Wednesday 12:45pm to 2pm at the Auburn Community Centre.
View the activities HERE.
To join, email ce.events@asylumseekerscentre.
Children’s Activities
Fun and educational activities are available for children. School holiday programs also available.
Time: Wednesday afternoons with the women’s groups and in school holidays
Opportunities
Training, work and education
Talk to an ASC University Advisor
Do you want to apply for University and Scholarships for 2025? If so, you can get help applying for university courses and tuition fee scholarships.
Contact us at employment@asylumseekerscentre.org.au to talk to a University Advisor at ASC.
University Scholarships
Limited full-fee undergraduate scholarships for people seeking asylum are available in a number of universities in NSW. You MUST also apply to enrol in an eligible course at the university you are applying for scholarships.
Current open scholarships
University of Newcastle closes 13 Oct
Scholarship for Asylum Seekers Program (SASP)
UNSW closes 30 Oct
Sanctuary Scholarship for People Seeking Asylum and Refugee Students (UGCE1420)
Western Sydney University closes 16 Nov
Scholarship for Asylum Seekers
Humanitarian Scholarships
University of Notre Dame Open timeline VC’s Humanitarian Scholarship
Conditions here
Application here.
University Open Days
Visit universities at open days to learn more about the university, courses on offer and the campus
30 August 2025: University of Sydney, University of Technology Sydney Open Day and University of Notre Dame
6 September 2025: UNSW Sydney and Australian Catholic University (North Sydney)
Free Online HSC Study Sessions
Run by Western Sydney University for Year 12 students. Educational and interactive.
Includes deep dives into content and syllabus areas, study tips, and the chance to sit a practice exam and get it checked by pros.
To register, click HERE.
English and computer classes
You can join other organisations who are also giving FREE English and Computer classes.
Computer and English class at Auburn: Wednesdays, 9:00am – 3:00pm
For more information on Computer and English classes at Auburn visit this LINK.
English classes at Newtown Community Centre: Mondays 10.30 to 12pm and Wednesdays from 1.30pm to 3pm
For more information on English classes at Newtown visit this LINK.
English and computer classes
Computer class run by Cumberland City Council
| When: | Wednesdays 9:30AM- 12:00PM |
| Where: | Auburn Centre for Community, 44a Macquarie Road Auburn |
| To book: | No booking required |
English conversation class run by Cumberland City Council
| When: | Wednesdays, 1:00pm – 3:00pm |
| Where: | Auburn Centre for Community, 44a Macquarie Road Auburn |
| To book: | No booking required |
English class run by Newtown Neighbourhood Centre
| When: | Mondays 10.30 to 12pm and Wednesdays from 1.30pm to 3pm |
| Where: | Auburn Centre for Community, 44a Macquarie Road Auburn |
| To book: | Registration not required – more information HERE. |
Study at TAFE for free
Fee-Free Courses at TAFE
TAFE offers flexible study options and nationally recognised courses to ensure you are job-ready. Explore study and training options via this LINK.
Semester 2, 2025 is now open for enrolments.
Talk to a TAFE Career Counsellor today! They can help you find a course. Simply call TAFE on 131 601 (Option 5, then Option 2) to make an appointment.
The ASC can also help you to understand information, provide you with advice and guidance, and help to complete enrolment forms. Simply email employment@asylumseekerscentre.org.au
TAFE online courses
Explore TAFE online courses. Study anywhere anytime.
TAFE Digital offers a wide range of nationally recognised, online study options, across a range of modern industries. You can study online and enjoy flexible learning to fit your lifestyle, with our online short courses, certificates, diplomas, and degrees.
More information HERE.
TAFE English courses
TAFE provides intensive English classes to all levels – usually offered full time, 4 days a week. The English courses listed under the Smart and Skilled Program are accessible for asylum seekers on bridging visas.
Courses:
Health, exercise, family support
Wellbeing
Men's Social Soccer - Fairfield
Men’s social soccer at Fairfield Park. Morning tea provided.
When: Every Saturday 10:00 – 12:00pm
Where: Fairfield Park, 14-20 Lawson Street, Fairfield Park NSW 2165
No bookings required. For more information call 0422 212 776
Street Soccer
Street Soccer for 16+ all abilities. Free, inclusive social soccer in multiple locations. Get exercise, have fun and meet others.
When (Date and time)/Where:
- Mondays – The Rocks – KGV Rec Centre – 2.30 – 4pm
- Tuesdays – Mt Druitt – Town Centre Reserve – 1.00pm – 3.30pm – basic skill level
- Thursdays – Parramatta – Robin Thomas Reserve – 3.30pm – 5.00pm
No need to register – just turn up – email ce.events@asylumseekerscentre.org.au if you have any questions. More info HERE.
Women's street soccer
Play soccer. An opportunity to get active, make new friends and seek support in a fun and safe environment. Equipment and Coaches provided. For women only.
When: Wednesdays 2pm – 4pm
Where: King George V Recreation Centre, Cumberland St, The Rocks New South Wales 2000
Bookings via this LINK.
Swimming Lessons
Swimming lessons for Adults on Monday Nights.
Where: Ian Thorpe Aquatic Centre, 458 Harris Street, Corner William Henry Street Ultimo
For bookings email ce.events@asylumseekerscentre.org.au
Affordable/free swim and ocean safety classes for men
Where: Various Locations – Auburn, Roselands, Liverpool
Booking: Information and booking HERE.
Free 10 swimming lessons organised by Jesuit Refugee Services. All female classes available.
Where: Seven Hills and Gregory Hills
For bookings email ce.events@asylumseekerscentre.org.au
Free Gym Access
Join other ASC community members at the King George the 5th (KGV) gym in the rocks for free use of the facilities with help from the KGV staff.
When: Wednesdays 4pm – 6pm
Where: The KGV Centre | 15 Cumberland St, The Rocks
Bookings: email ce.events@asylumseekerscentre.org.au
For more information click HERE.
Early Intervention Playgroups
Free group programs for babies | toddlers | preschoolers who need extra support.
When/Where:
Mondays 9.30-11.00 at Auburn
Wednesdays 9.30-11.00 at Auburn North
Thursdays 9.30-11.00 at Westmead
For bookings and more information click HERE.
Mental health phone support for new and expecting parents
Are you a new or expecting parent who needs mental health support?
Call ForWhen Mental Health Support. They will help with wellness and offer advice.
When: 09:00 – 16:30 Mon to Fri – phone 1300 24 23 22
More information HERE.
Circle of Security Parenting Program
8-week parenting program to help you support your young children.
Organised by: Australian Institute of Early Childhood
When/Where: September at Lidcombe or Online
Register via this LINK.
Teen Parenting Program
Free, five-week program for parents. Helps you learn how to connect with your teenagers and teach them to be more confident and strong. More information here.
When: 27th Aug, 3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th Sept – 6pm – 8pm
Where: 13 Banksia Street, Botany NSW 2019
Bookings Essential – rachael.a@bfcc.org.au or enquire via 02 9666 5047
Tuning in to Kids Parenting Program
Botany Family & Children’s Centre is running a free, evidence-based parenting program supporting all parents/carers to build stronger emotional connections with their children. The program is run by qualified Early Childhood Educators and Parenting Coaches.
When: Dates: 30th July, 6th August, 13th August, 20th August, and 27th August (Wednesdays), 6PM to 8PM
Where: Online, link will be sent to attendees upon registration.
For bookings email adminassist@bfcc.org.au
For more information click this LINK.
Free Counselling Sessions for Palestinians aged 18 years and over
Community Based Mental Health Program offers Free Counselling Sessions for Palestinians aged 18 years and over.
Face to face and online options available. Service offered in Arabic and English.
For bookings follow this LINK.
FREE HOTLINE - Support for people affected by overseas conflicts
Witness-to-War Multilingual Hotline is a FREE national phone service for people affected by conflicts overseas.
Call 1800 845 198. Monday to Friday 10am – 7pm– except public holidays
When you call, someone will ask what language you speak. They’ll connect you with a worker who speaks your language, or arrange an interpreter if needed.
Whether you’re worried about loved ones, feeling stressed, need help finding information about useful services and support, or just need someone to talk to, you can call.
Supports and information
ASC Marketplace
The ASC Marketplace is now open!
It is where you can see a list of various items that are available for FREE if you need them. What to do:
- Browse through the list of items in Marketplace
- Fill out and submit the form
- We will be in touch to organise pick up – you will pick up at ASC Newtown
The list will be regularly updated as more items are added over time.
Please visit the Marketplace in the link HERE.
Community Cafe
Offering FREE clothing, homewares, produce, cold/fridge items, meat, meals, pantry and more. FREE to all during hours listed!
CABRAMATTA OUTREACH SERVICE STORE
When: Ongoing. Mon, Wed, Fri – 1pm to 5pm
Where: Outreach Service Store. 64 Cabramatta Ave, Miller 2168
More information via this LINK.
Food Pantries
ADDI ROAD
Addi Road Food Pantry offers very low cost groceries. Once you spend $5 or more, you receive free fruit, vegetables and bread.
When: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday & Friday
12 noon – 4 pm and Wednesday
12 noon – 7 pm
Where: Addison Road Community Centre,
142 Addison Road, Marrickville
or
When: Monday to Saturday
12 noon – 4 pm
Where: 31 Pyrmont Bridge Rd, Camperdown
AUBURN FOOD PANTRY
When: Every Tuesday
Where: 18‐24 Kerr Parade, Auburn NSW 2144
Where: 18‐24 Kerr Parade, Auburn NSW 2144
Time: 12.30PM-2.30PM
AskIzzy (Resource)
Website that provides information on many supports around Sydney. For example – where to find food, accommodation and financial assistance.
Click HERE.
NSW Child Info Hub (Resource)
A website for Parents providing resources to help you from pregnancy to 5 years old.
Access the website HERE.
Immunisation Information (Resource)
Video resources about childhood immunisation / vaccination
Access the online resources HERE.
One Talk at a Time (Resource)
Helping adults to have conversations with young people about child sexual abuse.
Access the online resources HERE
Community Directory
This is a directory of services that can help you. These are services offered by the ASC and by other organisations.
This includes information for services to support emergencies, paying bills, housing or government services, legal aid and more.
Click HERE for more information.
Note: The list of services from other organisations have their own eligibility criteria. This is only a guide.
Learn about Refugee Laws and definitions
Learn about Refugee Laws. To get a temporary or permanent protection visa in Australia, the government must look at your case and decide if you are a refugee or if you qualify for something called ‘complementary protection’. Learn about some information provided by RACS.
Read HERE.
Legal situation for people seeking asylum
Things you need to know about the process of seeking asylum and your rights, and more information on the Current Legal Situation For People Seeking Asylum in Australia prepared by RACS.
Read HERE.
Community life and activities
Supported Playgroups Across Sydney
Children’s Playgroups
Join a Supported Playgroup to connect with your child, build confidence, and meet other families! Simply use the links provided to find groups in Sydney, and be sure to register first as many require it.
When/Where: Different dates and locations
Find information at the links below
Bankstown, Fairfield and Liverpool areas organised by Karitane Linking
The Wellbeing Project: Connect, Support, Care
Weekly outreach that offers a place to connect, enjoy a FREE meal and have a chat! They also provide tea, coffee, referrals to support services and access to computers
When: Thursdays, 11am
Where: Sarah Daniels Court, Corner of Finns Lane and McFarlane Street, Merrylands
More info HERE.