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Most recently added

Newest events

Arts and Crafts at Newtown

Join in on a fun and relaxing weekly art project with volunteer Sophie.

When: Every Wednesday 11am – 12.30pm

Where: Upstairs at ASC 43 Bedford St Newtown

Book a spot by emailing ce.events@asylumseekerscentre.org.au

More information HERE.

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.

Excursion: Inner City Farm

Come to a farm near Newtown where we will have a tour of the beautiful garden do some farm work and learn how to grow leafy vegetables and herbs

When: Thursday 12th June, 10.30am – 2pm

Where: Meet at Pride Square Newtown, just opposite Newtown Station

Bookings HERE.

More information HERE.

Featured

Hot lunches at the Asylum Seekers Centre

Share a free hot lunch with the Asylum Seekers Centre.

Delicious and healthy lunches are available in Newtown on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays at 12:30pm and in Auburn on Wednesdays at 12:00pm.

Catch up with old friends and make new ones.

Volunteer shares free hot lunch to a person seekinga sylum
Community life

Arts and community

Sing and Grow workshop

Have fun with music! For parents and their young children: Come to the ASC to sing, dance, and play instruments together.

When: Now until 3rd of July, Thursdays 10am – 11am.

Where: ASC Newtown

Bookings via this LINK.

For more information, visit this LINK.

FREE Big Day of Play @ Luna Park

Bring the whole family and celebrate at Luna Park Sydney for a fun-filled day of free activities, playgroup fun, and entertainment.

The event at Luna Park  is run by Playgroup NSW.

Entry is free, but if families would like to use the rides or access special attractions, you will need to purchase tickets separately.

There will be lots of free activities on the day, including: Performances, Face painting, Balloon twisting, Interactive stalls, Giveaways and more.

When: Wednesday 11 June, 10.00am to 2:00 pm

Where: Luna Park, Milsons Point

The link to register for free entry is HERE.

If you would like to buy ride or attraction tickets, you can use the link HERE.

Community Cafe Incorporated Outreach Service Store

Offering clothing, homewares, produce, cold/fridge items, meat, meals, pantry and more. FREE to all during hours listed! Everyone is welcome here, this is a no questions asked service. You do not need anything other than some bags to put your shopping into and a little patience.

When: Ongoing. Monday 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Wednesday 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Friday 11:00 AM to 16:00 PM

Where: Outreach Service Store. 64 Cabramatta Ave, Miller 2168

No booking required but can call 0493 048 650

More information via this LINK.

Dad2Dad Pit Stop

Learn to Service your Car Workshop – The Basics to Keep your Car Moving (Free Program) – Register by 27th July.

When: Thursday 07 August, 04:00 PM to 06:00 PM

Where: 232 Railway Parade, Cabramatta

Bookings via this LINK.

Community Cafe Outreach Service Store

The Cafe service that provides FREE food, pantry items, toiletries, vegetables, fruit, bread, meat, meals and cold items such as milk eggs cheese etc. They also provide clothing, shoes, and all other household items and white goods.

When: They are open 3 days a week: Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays 11am to 4pm.

Where: 54 Celebration Road Sadleir 2168

For more information call 0493 048 650 or visit this LINK.

Sewing group at Auburn and Newtown

Be part of a fun and creative sewing community, learn new skills and have a good time. Bring in your mending or any sewing project you are working on. We will provide all supplies, equipment, and a supportive and friendly learning environment.

When/Where: Every Wednesday at ASC Auburn (12:30pm-2:15pm) and Fridays at ASC Newtown (10:30am-12:30pm)

Booking: To join the sewing group please email ce.events@asylumseekerscentre.org.au

When: 10:30am – 12:30pm every Friday.

Where: ASC, 43 Bedford Street, Newtown

To join the sewing group: email ce.events@asylumseekerscentre.org.au

LGBTQIA+ Peer Group

The ASC supports a safe space for our clients who identify as part of the LGBTQIA+ community. The group meets regularly, providing opportunities for social connection with access to events, dinners, nights out and guest speakers.

For more information you can contact our LGBTQIA+ Community Coordinator via this email.

Free Homework Help

Free Homework Help (During School Term)

The Cumberland Multicultural Community Services (CMCS) and Merrylands Youth Centre (MYC) Homework Support program has recommenced at Merrylands Youth Centre. The homework help is for children aged 12-18 years old.

When: Every Monday from 3-6 pm at the Merrylands Youth Centre

Where: Address, 289 Merrylands Road,Merrylands

Bookings: To register please call Erick from CMCS on 9637 7600 or Seini from MYC on 9637 1535

Addi Road Food Pantry

Visit Addi Road Food Pantry for 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

For more information visit this LINK.

auburn food pantry promotional poster

Auburn Food Pantry

When: Every Tuesday

Where
:  18‐24 Kerr Parade, Auburn NSW 2144

Time
: 12.30PM-2.30PM
Opportunities

Training, work and education

Young Migrant Women’s Forum

This free, full-day event is designed to support and empower young women from migrant, Pasifika, Maori, refugee and asylum seeker backgrounds through leadership, identity and career development workshops. Connect with mentors, join inspiring discussions, and gain tools for personal and career growth.

When: Wednesday 9 July

Where: Western Sydney University, Parramatta City Campus

Submit an expression of interest HERE.

See an ASC volunteer for support with applying to university.

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.

Study at TAFE for free

Fee-Free Courses at TAFE

TAFE offers flexible study options, industry experienced teachers and nationally recognised courses to ensure you are job-ready.

There are many courses up to Certificate IV offering government subsidies – including English courses, Cert III in Individual Support and Cert IV in Community Services!

Talk to a TAFE Career Counsellor today!

Call TAFE on 131 601 (Option 5, then Option 2) to make an appointment with one of the TAFE Counsellors.

Semester 2, 2025 is now open for enrolments.

arabian and african american business people in headsets near digital translators and interpreter on blurred foreground

TAFE - Book to talk to a career counsellor

TAFE offers hundreds of courses to choose from. Many courses up to Cert IV may be fee-free for people seeking asylum.

TAFE NSW provides free counselling about education and careers to current and future students.

TAFE counsellors can help you to:

  • clarify your career goals;
  • find a course that meets your needs;
  • identify obstacles you may be facing – and help you to deal with them; and
  • develop skills to manage your career into the future.

Call TAFE on 131 601 (Option 5, then Option 2) to make an appointment with one of the TAFE Counsellors.

For more information click here.

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.

A young man wearing a blue shirt sits in a library with a pile of books in front of him. He is holding a book open and smiling.

English courses at TAFE

Learn to speak everyday English at home, in the classroom, in your career and in your community. Talk to others, prepare for further study and feel more confident using the language

Explore English TAFE courses HERE.

More information about TAFE

There are many ways to study at TAFE. Explore study and training options via this LINK.

The ASC can help you to understand information and make decisions about whether the training courses are the right choice for you. We can also provide you with advice and guidance, and help to complete enrolment forms.

For more assistance, contact us by email or phone at employment@asylumseekerscentre.org.au or call (02) 9078 1900).

University scholarships for asylum seekers

University Humanitarian 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 New South Wales (UNSW)

Scholarship for Asylum Seekers and Refugees

Mid Year 2025 Intake. Undergraduate and Postgraduate.  

Open 1 May. Closes 15 July. 

 

Australian Catholic University (ACU)

ACU Refugee Scholarship for Mid Year 2025

Open 1 June. Closes 4 July.

A young woman walks through the grounds of Macquarie University in Sydney.
Wellbeing

Exercise

a group of children smiling

Better Active Living Liverpool (BALL)

Come and have a BALL at Better Active Living Liverpool for Children and Teens aged 7 to 17 who live in the Liverpool LGA.

Join fun, free, and active healthy lifestyle activities happening right in your local community. Activities include street sports, park run, art and wellness class and more.

When: Monday 26 May 2025 to Saturday 28 June 2025

Where: Liverpool LGA – Different venues

Bookings via this LINK

Swimmer in water

Swim Brothers swimming classes

Affordable/free swim and ocean safety classes for men, breaking down barriers for men of all backgrounds.

When: Starting 24 April

Where: Various Locations – Auburn, Roselands, Liverpool

Booking: Information and booking 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 2:30pm-4:30pm

Where: King George V Recreation Centre, Cumberland St, The Rocks New South Wales 2000

Bookings via this LINK.

Adult Swimming Lessons

Swimming lessons for Adults on Monday Nights.

When: Mondays starting the 17th of February, 6.40pm

Where: Ian Thorpe Aquatic Centre, 458 Harris Street, Corner William Henry Street Ultimo

Bookings via this FORM.

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.

Yoga in the Park (Free)

When: Sunday 9:30am
Where: At the corner of Lower Fort Street and George Street at Dawes Point Park, right under the Sydney Harbour Bridge in The Rocks
No registration needed. More information HERE.
Wellbeing

Family Wellbeing

Circle of Security Parenting

Gain confidence in parenting, enhance your child’s self-esteem and build warmer and more nurturing relationships with your children. This program is for all Mums, Dads and Carers. FREE Event (no child-minding provided)

When: Every Tuesday for six weeks. 27th May 2025 to 1st July 2025. 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM

Where: Liverpool City Library (Yallamundie) B2.11 – 52 Scott Street, Liverpool NSW 2170

Spaces are limited. Bookings via this LINK. 

People at an information session

Parenting Workshop - A Personal Autism Journey

Free parenting workshop with Daniel Giles, autism self-advocate and public speaker, and his dad Daryl Giles.

Hear Daniel’s inspiring story. This is a great chance to learn what life is really like on the autism spectrum, both for individuals and families. Topics include: Getting a diagnosis, school and learning, finding a job and living independently.

Connect with other parents and local support services. Lunch or dinner included – free to attend!

When: Wednesday 4th June, 2025. 10:00 AM to 13:30 PM OR 5:30 PM to 9:00 PM

Where: The Hub@Bonnyrigg Dhanawi. 2 Wall Pl, Bonnyrigg NSW 2177

More information via this LINK.

Tuning into Kids

This FREE program will help parents and carers to support their kids to develop a healthy relationship with feelings.

Learn how to support your child’s emotions in a healthy way. They’ll show you an easy style called emotion coaching to help your child manage feelings and build a strong bond with you. This group is appropriate for women who care for kids 12 and under. Childcare will be provided.

When: Every Tuesday 27 to 24 June, 10:30 AM – 12:30 PM

Where: Liverpool Women’s Health Centre: 26 Bathurst St, Liverpool NSW 2170

For bookings call Liverpool Women’s Health Centre on 9601 3555 to register or drop-in.

An adult's hand holding a child's hand.

Free program for parents

Cumberland City Council is offering 20 local parents the opportunity to take part in the award-winning, evidence-based program: Bringing Up Great Kids (BUGK). What you’ll gain from the program:

  • Build confidence in your parenting style
  • Learn effetive, mindful ways to communicate with your child
  • Encourage your child’s positive self-identity and emotional development

When: Thursdays in June: 5, 12, 19, 26 June, 6:00 PM – 8:30 PM

Where: via Microsoft Teams

To register, visit this LINK.

Kids Nature Play Resource

Practical ideas to spark outdoor exploration and build meaningful connections between you and your children.

View the resources HERE.

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.

 

Improve your English

English language help

ASC English classes - new dates and times

Learn English at Auburn and Newtown. Classes are available for a range of learner stages including basic, beginner, upper beginner, intermediate and advanced students.

For more information and to book: Email ce.events@asylumseekerscentre.org.au

AUBURN
Where: Auburn Centre for Community, 44a Macquarie Road Auburn view on Google Maps

Beginners
When: Wednesdays, 1:00 – 3:00 PM

NEWTOWN
Where: ASC Newtown, 43 Bedford St Newtown view on Google Maps

Upper Beginner
When: Thursday 11:30 -12:30pm

Intermediate
When: Thursday 10-11:30pm

ONLINE (your teacher will send a link before each class)

Upper Beginner
When: Wednesday 6 – 7 pm

Intermediate
When: Tuesdays: 10 -11 am
When: Wednesday 11 am -12 pm

Advanced
When: Tuesday 6 – 7:30 pm
When: Wednesday 6 – 7:30 pm

English and computer classes

Drop in to Auburn Centre for Community to join a Computer class or English class run by Cumberland City Council.

Computer and English class: Wednesdays, 9:00am – 3:00pm

For more information visit this LINK.

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

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:

In class & TAFE Digital online.

Free references

Helpful resources

People at an information session

What is coercive control?

Coercive control is a type of abuse that can happen in relationships—it includes things like threats, controlling money, isolating someone from friends or family, and tracking where you go. It’s now a crime in NSW. The NSW Government has free information in many languages to help you understand your rights and get support – including English, Korean, Assyrian, Farsi,  Nepali, Punjabi and Filipino/Tagalog.

Translated information about coercive control is available on the NSW Government’s website for FREE.

Community Directory Information Pack

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.