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Most recently added

Newest events

CMRC and STARTTS Invite You to a Gathering of Solidarity, Healing, and Hope

As the crisis in Iran continues to unfold, many members of our community in Sydney are experiencing deep pain, fear, and a sense of helplessness.

In response, the Community Migrant Resource Centre (CMRC) and STARTTS warmly invite you to a special community gathering — a safe and supportive space for connection, healing, and hope.

Led by Iranian counselors, this gathering offers an opportunity to:

  • Share your experiences and emotions in a safe and respectful environment
  • Connect with others in the community
  • Learn practical tools for resilience and self-care
  • Reflect on collective strength, healing, and the power of hope
When: Monday,30 June 2025,  4;00 to 6:00 pm
Where: CMRC Parramatta, Level 4 , number 1 , Harwood Place Parramatta.
For more information please email or call Parastoo Khosronejad

Emergin Matildas Championship

Young people and their parents are invited to this FREE event to watch elite youth football, join free community programs and connect with the football community.

When: Tuesday 15th and Wednesday the 16th of July | 10am – 5.00pm

Where: Valentine Sports Park, 235-237 Meurants Lane, Glenwood, NSW, 2768

Bookings via this FORM.

For more information click HERE.

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.

Learn how the ASC is responding to our your feedback. A photo of two women chatting at the ASC office.

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.

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

English Drama Workshops

Join free drama workshops by Australian Theatre for Young People (ATYP). Suitable for those in Kindergarten to Year 12. Participants will make new friends, learn about performing, gain confidence and have fun in a safe and inspiring environment.

It is a commitment of at least two days per week, we apply for scholarships and students don’t have to pay.

When: Monday 7 to 18 July, 9:30am to 3:30pm

Where: 13 A Hickson Road, Dawes Point, 2000

Bookings email family@asylumseekerscentre.org.au

More information HERE.

Creative Studios (Art Classes)

Join art classes at Power House Museum. Suitable for older students, from 12 years old. Students must commit to 2 days a week.

When: Monday 7 July to 18 July from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm

Where: PHIVE, 5 Parramatta Sq, Parramatta, 2150

For bookings email: family@asylumseekerscentre.org.au

Ryde Rotary Circus Quirkus

Enjoy the circus for free! This is an accessible live theatre experience for children and young people. More information available HERE.

When and Where:

Monday 14 July, 11:00am – The Blacktown Workers Club

Wednesday, 16 July, 11:00am at Hurstville Entertainment Centre

For bookings email: meredithnewman@showintent.com.au

 

Join art classes at Power House Museum. Suitable for older students, from 12 years old. Students must commit to 2 days a week.

When: Monday 7 July to 18 July from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm

Where: PHIVE, 5 Parramatta Sq, Parramatta, 2150

For bookings email: family@asylumseekerscentre.org.au

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.

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.

Western Sydney University Open Day

For students who want to explore studying at Western Sydney University.

It’s a full-campus event packed with everything you need to feel informed, inspired and ready to take the next step toward your dream career. Explore course options, find out about our entry pathways and experience uni life to see why so many students chose Western.

When: Sunday 6 July 2025 from 10am to 4pm.

Where: Parramatta South campus

For more information and bookings clicks HERE.

A young woman works on her laptop.

Free Online HSC Study Sessions

From Monday 29 September to Friday 3 October 2025, Western Sydney University is bringing Year 12 students a jam-packed week of free online HSC study sessions.

This includes: Deep dives into content and syllabus areas, smart study tips and techniques, and the chance to sit a practice exam and get it deconstructed by pros.

It’s free, it’s online, and it’s all designed to help you succeed in the HSC.

To register, click 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

FREE Swimming Lessons - Seven Hills and Gregory Hills

Jesuit Refugee Services are offering 10 free swimming lessons to people seeking asylum at swimming pools in both Seven Hills and Gregory Hills. All female classes available.

When: Various times

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.

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

CORE Youth Services Holiday Program

The CORE FREE Holiday Program exciting new activities and opportunities for client including pizza making, bowling and pottery.

Young people aged 12-19 years old, who are either living in the Fairfield or Liverpool LGAs, are eligible to attend.

When: Monday 7th July, Tues 8th July, Monday 14th July

Where: Fairfield – Various Locations

More information and booking form HERE.

Return the form attached to CORE Youth Office at 32-26 Harris Street, Fairfield or email form to: information@corecs.org.au.

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. 

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.

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

a man and two women in a class

Newtown Neighbourhood Centre English Classes

Free English classes at Newtown Neighbourhood Centre. Open to all adults.

When: 11th June 2025 onwards on Mondays 10.30 to 12pm and Wednesdays from 1.30pm to 3pm

Where: 11/13 Darley Street, Newtown 2042

Registration not required – information HERE.

For any additional questions  please call 9564 7333 or email communitystrengthening@newtowncentre.org.

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.