Yarra Settlement Forum

2010-09-22T09:46:00.001+10:00

३ रेफुगी रेडियो ईन्तेर्नतिओनल हमन रिघ्ट्स Day

2010-09-22T09:20:00.000+10:00

Yarra Gives - opportunities to volunteer or donate

2010-09-14T13:36:00.000+10:00

Many local organisations are looking for opportunities to volunteer or donate – and they are looking for them on YarrraGives.

Make sure you list your community organisation so that you too can benefit from these opportunities. To do this, go directly to YarrraGives and sign up there.

Yarra Gives is an initiative of the City of Yarra, in association with Our Community, to encourage and support giving in the Yarra community and to assist community groups with fundraising. Yarra Gives is the practical place to explore all the ways you can help your local community, by donating, volunteering and giving locally.

For Community Groups: Register to start collecting online donations - a FREE service offered by the City of Yarra.
For Donors: Search for a Yarra community appeal that you would like to donate to - you can give online or by phone, fax or mail.

2010-09-13T11:03:00.000+10:00

VMC Building Cultural Competence in the Workplace workshops

2010-09-13T10:49:00.003+10:00

Re: Don’t dump new arrivals in towers. Steve Price, Herald Sun, May 4, 2010

2010-06-30T10:25:00.004+10:00

The members of the Yarra Settlement Forum take strong exception to tone and content of Mr Price’s article।

Mr Price’s visit to Atherton Gardens Estate in Fitzroy lasted an hour। He appears to have spoken to two residents, including “Reg”, who apparently does not enjoy living there and, presumably, invited Mr Price into the building where he lives. It is not clear whether Mr Price actually entered a flat; he writes only of laundries and stairwells. He sees some residents of the building; most of those he sees are apparently from Africa and he concludes that they are the dominant group. Otherwise, he relies entirely on “Reg” for the information on which he bases his opinion of the estate.

It is a pity that the only statistic given by “Reg” that Mr Price seems to have checked is the report of 26 Somalis living in one flat; he admits that neither the Minister for Housing nor his own observations confirm this figure, but takes the trouble to repeat “Reg’s” assertion।

“Reg’s” reliability as an informant can be assessed immediately by the misinformation he presents about the Anglicare Centre in Napier Street। There is no soup kitchen there; food parcels are given out, but only to holders of pension or health care cards, and each recipient is entitled to and receives no more than eight parcels a year, under Commonwealth legislation. Records are strictly maintained and anyone who attempts to subvert the system loses their entitlements.

It would be interesting to know if Mr Price made any attempt to speak to any other of the approximately 2000 residents of the estate, or to the very active Atherton Gardens Residents Association about their experience of living there। Did he check any of the information “Reg” gave him with the Office of Housing?

Here are some relevant facts:
· There are approximately 2000 residents, living in 800 flats, in four 20-storey blocks. Of this number, around 30% are Vietnamese, 15-20% are Chinese and 15% are from Africa. The balance consists of smaller numbers of people of many ethnic backgrounds, including Anglo-Australian.
· While there were serious problems some years ago with security, the Neighbourhood Renewal Program run by the State Government from 2002 to 2009 has led to major renovations of the buildings, both of individual flats and of the public areas, including entrances; this upgrade has provided much improved security, with much tighter control of access to the buildings.
· All residents have computer access in their flats and there is also a very well-used computer hub in the community meeting area.
· The Neighbourhood Renewal Program has created employment opportunities for residents through the development of the Community Contact Service, which trains and employs residents to work as concierges at the entrance of each building. The service is managed by the Brotherhood of St Laurence, and is an outstanding example of cooperation between a local community agency, residents and the government.
· Every second year since the start of the Neighbourhood Renewal Program, the University of Melbourne has conducted a survey of 300 residents to discover their attitudes to living on the estate. Their answers have been increasingly positive.
· There are no plans to develop more gardens or basketball courts।

In any community of 2000 or so, there will inevitably be disagreements from time to time, but what is remarkable about Atherton Gardens to those of us who have spent a lot more time there than Mr Price has, is how harmonious the community is overall. To suggest, as he does, with no evidence to support his view, that “these people” are being “dumped” in public housing towers (a phrase conjuring up images of silos) because “we” are “flushing them into the country” would be laughable if it did not pander so obviously to the bigotry of some against anyone wishing to settle and contribute to life in a multicultural Australia.

Clever Ideas Forum

2010-05-07T10:55:00.001+10:00

18 May - Selling FAST!Date: Tuesday 18 May, 2010Time: 9am-1pmVenue: Seminar Room 1, City Library, 253 Flinders Lane, MelbourneCost: $40 inc. GST per person ($20 inc. GST for VCOSS Members).
Need help with strategic planning, graphic design, marketing, websites, sorting out your tax status, running an event, speakers at an event, mentoring or HR advice?Come along to Clever Ideas 2010 and hear more about what can be achieved, how to get started and tips on how to ensure the best outcomes.

Listen to goodcompany’s tips on how to scope skills gaps in your organisation and how to write an effective job description to appeal to the right volunteersDiscuss your clever idea with skilled volunteer brokers who can assist your organisation to access an appropriate skilled volunteer, including goodcompany, Great Connections, Leadership Victoria, PilchConnect, Skill Share (supported by Oxfam Australia) and Volunteering VictoriaLearn how to access university students from Monash University.
Feedback from participants who attended this session previously: “Helped to get you thinking of ways to do those things that you constantly put aside because of time, finances and expertise” “Great concepts, ideas. Showed pitfalls to look out for.” “Quick, punchy and informative” “Helped greatly with shaping an approach to accessing skilled volunteers” Register now: www.vcoss.org.au/clearinghouse/clearinghouse%20docs/FLY_100401_CleverIdeas.docFor more information please email kate.johnson@vcoss.org.au

Invitation to History of Railway House Publication Launch

2010-05-07T10:54:00.001+10:00

Wednesday May 12, 2010

The North Carlton Railway Neighbourhood House (Railway House) is pleased to invite you to the launch of The History of Railway House publication on Wednesday May 12th from 12.30 to 2pm (including a light lunch).

The ‘History of Railway House’ publication uncovers and records the story of Railway Neighbourhood House which, as identified by author and historian Jeff Atkinson, is ‘an important part of the fabric of Melbourne’s history’.

The old railway station building has stood where it is for over 120 years now, serving the local community in various ways. It has witnessed technological change, personal tragedies, political struggles, resident actions, community and family celebrations, and the formation and operation of a vibrant community centre. It does indeed have a proud history.

Join us to celebrate our community with the launch of this important and engaging publication, featuring guest speaker (and author) Jeff Atkinson.

3ZZZ Radio call for programs

2010-05-07T10:53:00.001+10:00

05 May 2010
Community Radio 3ZZZ invites Ethnic Communities who wish to make radio programs for broadcast into the greater Melbourne and surrounding areas to apply to the station.
Radio 3ZZZ is the largest ethnic community station in Australia. Located at 92.3 on the FM radio band, 3ZZZ started broadcasting on a regular basis in June 1989. The Studios are located at 1st Floor, 144 George Street, Fitzroy and the station is heard across the Melbourne metropolitan region, as far as Geelong to the west and Macedon to the north. Broadcasting 24 hours a day, it is estimated that more than 400,000 people listen to 3ZZZ every week.The station can now be heard across all Australia and the rest of the world through internet broadcasting.
For more information phone (03) 9415 1928 during business hours or by email to manager@3zzz.com.au
www.3zzz.org.au

National Celtic Festival

2010-05-07T10:49:00.001+10:00

11 June 2010 - 14 June 2010
Newcombe St, Portarlington
Cost: Varies
The National Celtic Festival is held annually over the June long weekend in Portarlington, Victoria. It is Australia's largest and most diverse celebration of Celtic culture. Every year festival-goers enjoy a huge array of national and international acts.

Buddha's Day and Multicultural Festival

2010-05-07T10:46:00.001+10:00

15 May 2010 - 16 May 2010
Federation Square and surrounds
Proudly presented by Fo Guang Shan Melbourne (FGS) and Buddha’s Light International Victoria (BLIA VIC), the Festival runs over two days (15th & 16th May) in the heart of Melbourne, at Federation Square. The Festival commemorates the birth of the Buddha, one of the most significant days of the Buddhist calendar, and highlights and promotes cooperation, community understanding and harmony in our inclusive and culturally diverse community. The Festival incorporates the traditions of Buddhist ceremony including the 'Bathing of the Buddha', daily Dharma ceremonies, the Wishing Bell and traditional incense offerings; a vegetarian culinary tour of Asia along the River Terrace and cooking demonstrations; cultural dance and performances from around the globe; cultural demonstrations in BMW Edge; music; art and craft, community service groups providing information and assistance; and special activities and programs for children at ArtPlay.

RISE Festival

2010-05-07T10:41:00.000+10:00

23 May 2010 (3-6pm)
BMW Edge Building, Federation Square
Refugee Survivors and Ex-detainees festival featuring Westridaz hip hop, Gulius Kogoyo Capoeira dance, the Social Studio fashion show, Pataphysics, the Liberian Choir and lots more. Hosted by comedians Aamer Rahman and Nazeem Hussain of Fear of a Brown Planet.

The Future of Live Music

2010-04-28T13:26:00.001+10:00

Yarra City Council is hosting an open forum to discuss the issues facing Yarra’s vibrant live music community. The panel will feature a cross section of the music community including representatives from community radio, Fair Go 4 Live Music and Music Victoria. Discussion will be moderated by Victoria Marles. Make your voice heard and help find a way forward to keep live music in Yarra rocking into the future.

WHEN:
Thursday 6 May 2010, 6.00pm – 8.00pm
WHERE:
Reading Room, Fitzroy Town Hall,201 Napier Street, Fitzroy
ENTRY:
Free
CHAIR:
Victoria Marles – CEO, Trust for Nature (former Legal Services Commissioner and former Chair of Circus Oz)
PANEL:
Adrian Basso – community radio (PBS)Zvi Belling – Public Opinion Afro OrchestraCr Jane Garrett – Mayor, Yarra City CouncilLiam Matthew – The Old BarTim Northeast – Corner HotelJon Perring – Fair Go 4 Live MusicBruce Phillips – Director City Development, Yarra City CouncilKirsty Rivers – Music Victoria

Health Issues Centre (HIC)

2010-04-28T13:23:00.001+10:00

Join the Health Issues Centre Consumer Register
and help influence Government Policy on health
issues
Health Issues Centre (HIC) encourages
all Victorians to have their say on
health issues and to contribute their
experience, knowledge and ideas to
improving health care in Victoria.
CALD women are encouraged to apply.
Where can I go to get more information?
For further information about the programme,
please contact Nicky Barry
n.barry@healthissuescentre.org.au
or phone 9479 3222.

Humanitarian Crisis Hub- Training

2010-04-28T13:22:00.000+10:00

The Humanitarian Crisis Hub invites community
groups advocating for human rights in war and
conflict to a series of free workshops and evening
presentations designed to promote discussion and
networking, and improve their practical activism
skills and outcomes:
Introduction to Human Rights
When & where?
Tuesday 27 April, 5:30pm - 8pm
Mezzanine, Ross House, 247 Flinders Lane
Using Online, New and Alternative Media for
Campaigning
When & where?
Saturday 22 May, 11am - 4pm
Hayden Raysmith Room, Level 4, Ross House, 247
Flinders Lane

Funding for Community Youth Events

2010-04-28T13:21:00.001+10:00

Community events, aimed at building strong
relationships between young people from
disadvantaged areas and their families, will be
funded across the country through a new
Australian Government initiative - Think Family,
Think Community. $400,000 will be available to
fund local community-based events like music
festivals, sporting events, family BBQs, fashion
parades, or car shows during 2010. 20 nongovernment
organisations across Australia will be
invited to apply for one-off grants of $20,000 for
events or activities which have a youth and family
focus.

Innernorth Foundation

2010-04-28T13:20:00.002+10:00

Community organisations in Darebin, Moreland
and Yarra are invited to apply for grants of up to
$15,000 to support projects that help local people
on their pathway into work. Organisations must be
endorsed as charitable institutions and projects
must benefit people in Melbourne's Inner North.
Applications close Mon 24 May 2010.
Visit: www.innernorthfoundation.org.au/grants

City of Yarra- Emerging Issues Grants –

2010-04-28T13:20:00.001+10:00

These grants are awarded every two years as part
of Council’s wider Community Grants Program,
providing local not-for-profit organisations with up
to $35,000 per year to implement community
projects.
This year, Council is targeting the grants to
organisations that work to improve the health and
wellbeing of people in the community. Applications
close 26 May 2010.
Visit:
www.yarracity.vic.gov.au/Community/Grants

Spectrum Seeds for Growth

2010-04-28T13:19:00.001+10:00

new fund launch by Spectrum to support
communities in the Northern Region. There are 3
categories: Events, Leadership and Stephanie
Lagos Innovative Solutions. To find out if you are
eligible, visit our website or contact Spectrum’s
Community Engagement Facilitator Carlene
Lamanna on 9496 0250.
www.spectrumvic.org.au/Settlement-Family-
Services5/Assistance-to-Ethnic-Community-Groups

Fitzroy Market this Saturday May 1st - get amongst it!

2010-04-28T13:14:00.000+10:00

Fresh organics, old skool vintage, live art & live music...its all GO at this month's Fitzroy Market.
WHEN: This Saturday 1st May, 10am - 2pm (and the first Saturday of every month )
WHERE: Fitzroy Primary School, corner Napier & Chapel Street Fitzroy (Melway Ref 44 B4)
Get your week's worth of fresh fruit and veg from CULTIVATING COMMUNITY and help support low income community gardens projects in the City ऑफ़ Yarra ....www।cultivatingcommunity.org.au.
Grab a bargain at Rita's fabulous plant stall (they're lush, fresh and cheap).
PLUS all the usual goodies at nearly 50 stalls filled with hand made, second hand, vintage and recycled treasures ... plus great coffee and yummy treats for a brekkie & lunch.
*** Your gold coin entry donation goes to FITZROY LEARNING NETWORK'S Refugee Support Program and FITZROY PRIMARY SCHOOL's Kitchen Garden Project fund ***
MAY'S MARKET ALSO FEATURES:
The folk and country vocal stylings of Teresa Dixon (from local trio Little Sister's of the Poor)
Melbourne-based indie-folk violin & guitar duo Aristotle's Chimney, playing dynamic
traditional & contemporary music infused with celtic, gypsy and roots elements.
Ukele action from Melperthian Claire Hollingsworth, playing whimsical फोल्क
pop and "Songs from the Hill" (co-written with students from
Brunswick North West Primary)
Local busker Mark Nunan's emotionally-charged folk rock combined with cunning pop sensibilities.
Live Art (while you wait!) from Ero

Please walk, cycle or get public transport – don’t drive! There is no public parking for patrons, and the environment will thank you.

www.fitzroymarket.com

with community partners:
www.cultivatingcommunity.org.au
www.fitzroylearningnetwork.org.au
www.fitzroyprimaryschool.vic.edu.au

Contact Fiona Newton at fitzroymarket@hotmail.com for more info.

African Men’s Group

2010-04-28T13:12:00.001+10:00

Meeting and meal to organise weekend away

Thursday 6th May, 6.00 pm at Fitzroy Learning Network, 198 Napier St, Fitzroy, (directly opposite Town Hall, next to the park)

At this meeting we will organise our weekend trip to Shepparton.

The trip will be on Friday 21st May to Sunday 23rd May.

Please come along to the meeting, sign up for the trip and bring your $20 payment. $20 will cover all food, accommodation and transport for the whole weekend.

Contact:
Tony Brewin 0414 181 438
Matoc Achol 0401 209 004
Deidre or Colleen Fitzroy Learning Network 9417 2897

African Parent Workshops – Talks In

2010-04-28T13:07:00.000+10:00

Sacred Heart School, Fitzroy
Tuesday 11 May
Tuesday 18 May
Tuesday 25 May
Tuesday 1 June

Starting at 1.30 - 3.30pm

Lunch is provided at 1pm.

Dinka, Nuer, Arabic interpreters

Child care available.

GRANT GUIDELINES 2010 PATHWAYS TO EMPLOYMENT GRANT ROUND

2010-04-28T13:03:00.000+10:00

The Inner North Community Foundation is a community-based foundation that funds community projects in Melbourne’s inner northern region (the communities of Darebin, Moreland and Yarra)।

The Pathways to Employment Grants Program supports projects that enhance the job prospects of men and women who live in Darebin, Moreland or Yarra and are having difficulty finding employment. For more information on the Inner North Community Foundation, visit our website www.innernorthfoundation.org.au GRANTS PROGRAM PURPOSE To support projects that improve people’s chances of finding a job. Funded projects must benefit people who live in or around Melbourne’s inner northern region (Darebin, Moreland or Yarra). ELIGIBILITY FOR FUNDING Applicants must be organisations that:

Work in or are based in Melbourne’s inner northern region (i.e. within the municipalities of Darebin, Moreland or Yarra),
Organisations must also be endorsed as a Charitable Institution by the Australian Tax Office (if this is your first application to us, please attach your notice of charitable endorsement). Organisations are not required to have DGR status.
N.B. Previous grant recipients are required to ensure they have submitted their final evaluation report and financial acquittal before any new applications will be assessed. TARGET AUDIENCE & PURPOSE Grants are available to support projects that assist people in Darebin, Moreland and Yarra to overcome barriers that are stopping them from getting a job. These barriers must be clearly explained in the grant application and your application must show how your project will help to overcome these. Projects are generally aimed at people between 14-25 years old, however projects that assist people older than this have been funded in the past and will be considered. In assessing grant applications, the Board considers a range of factors, for example how the project will improve people’s ability to find a job, whether government funding is already available to support this kind of project and whether the organisation applying for the grant is appropriately equipped to deliver the project.

In our 2009 grant round we received many more applications than we could fund. We expect this year to be similar and therefore ask all organisations to discuss their project idea with the Development Officer (Trudy Hairs – 8689 1967) before completing an application form. This will ensure that you do not waste time with an application that may be ineligible or outside of our focus. WHAT WILL NOT BE FUNDED In general, the Inner North Community Foundation will not fund the following:
Projects that do not meet our funding purpose (i.e. are not linked to employment and employability)

Projects that are based outside of Melbourne’s inner northern region (i.e. Darebin, Moreland, Yarra)

Individuals, ‘for profit’ organisations, sports clubs, government bodies, political parties or their candidates

Capital works (e.g. buildings, cars), direct service provision and conferences
Personal expenses (e.g. living, educational, travel etc)

Retrospective funding, i.e. for projects that have already started or have been completed

BUDGET Organisations can apply for projects of any amount up to $15,000 either for a stand alone project or as part of a larger co-funded project. Grants distributed last year ranged between $10,000 - $15,000. CLOSING DATE Applications must be received no later than Monday 24 May 2010.

HOW TO APPLY

Follow these four easy steps to apply:

1. Call the Development Officer to discuss your project (Mon, Tues, Wed on 8689 1967)
2. Download and complete an application form at www.innernorthfoundation.org.au/grants
3. Email your completed application to thairs@innernorthfoundation.org.au no later than Monday 24 May 2010
4. Post 1 signed hard copy of the application plus your organisation’s Annual Report and proof that you are endorsed as an Income Tax Concession Charitable Institution. The posted copy can be received after the due date, as long as we have received your email application by Monday 24 May.
We will acknowledge receipt of your application by email within one week. If you do not receive an email confirmation, please contact us immediately. Note: incomplete applications cannot be assessed. 3
CONTACT – note our details have changed
Telephone: Trudy Hairs Development Officer (Mon – Wed) 8689 1967
Postal Address: Trudy Hairs Inner North Community Foundation PO Box 2109 Preston Victoria 3072

Skills and Training Program for Community Groups

2010-04-28T12:59:00.000+10:00

Skills and Training Program for Community Groups
May to October 2010

Yarra City Council has a number of training sessions for local not-for-profit community groups and organisations.

The six sessions will provide free and practical advice to staff, volunteers and committee members to help community groups raise money, plan for the future and lift their profile in the community.

Session One: Fundraising
Wednesday 5 May, 6pm - 7.30pm or
Thursday 6 May, 7.30am - 8.45am (repeat session)
This session will provide an overview of the strategies you can put in place for successful fundraising. Learn about the different ways you can find money for your group.

Session Two: Winning Grants
Wednesday 2 June, 6pm - 7.30pm
This session provides answers to your grantseeking questions. Learn the secrets of successful grant writing and increase the number of grants you can apply for without pushing yourself into an early grave!

Session Three: Planning for your organisation’s future
Wednesday 7 July, 6pm - 7.30pm
All groups, whether large or small need to plan for their future. Find out about the tools to effectively develop, implement and monitor your group’s progress and stay focused.

Session Four: Getting the best out of meetings
Wednesday 4 August, 6pm - 7.30pm
Meetings are a fact of life. Learn how to get results from your meetings and make them effective, timely and enjoyable. Learn about the different roles in a meeting, minute taking and troubleshooting difficulties.

Session Five: Raising your group's profile
Wednesday 1 September, 6pm - 7.30pm
Often seen as an aside, marketing is integral to raising the community’s awareness of your group. Find out how you can reach potential new members and old friends, and generate extra support for your group without costing you an ‘arm and a leg’ in time and effort.

Session Six: Knowing more about your community
Wednesday 6 October, 6pm - 7.30pm
Make use of Census and demographic data to improve your group’s effectiveness. This is an easy and free way to target your programs and activities to members of the local community.

All sessions will be held in meeting rooms 1 & 2 at the Richmond Town Hall, 333 Bridge Road, Richmond.

For further information or to book your place in one or several sessions, contact Nina Collins, Community Planner.
Download a copy of the Skills and Training Program brochure. or visit www.yarracity.vic.gov.au/Community/Grants/Index.asp for more information.

Nina CollinsCommunity Planner - Grants
City of Yarra PO Box 168 Richmond 3121T (03) 9205 5146 F (03) 8417 6666E nina.collins@yarracity.vic.gov.au W www.yarracity.vic.gov.au

Fertility Awareness Presentation

2009-12-07T14:04:00.000+11:00

Women cycling Naturally

The Billings Ovulation MethodTM, is based on sound scientific studies, teaching woman to recognise their natural symptoms of fertility and infertility. No drugs, no devices, no operations, all natural. This Method is proven and reliable in achieving and delaying pregnancy, managing fertility during breastfeeding and menopause and understanding long term reproductive health.

We would like to offer you the opportunity of having a presentation about the Billings Ovulation MethodTM with one of our accredited teachers. Our presentations focus on a healthy and natural alternative to contraception, reproductive disorders and infertity. These sessions can be tailored to the needs of your clients including any multicultural groups within your community. We believe our method nutures love, mutual respect and responsibility in a relationship.

If you would like to arrange a presentation at your centre or are interested in information about the Billings Ovulation Method for your centre please contact Eva on (03) 9802 2022 or email us on publicity@woomb.org.

NAB - 6 Month Paid Work Placement Program - Briefing 8 December.

2009-12-07T13:49:00.000+11:00

Following a very successful pilot program, Jesuit Social Services is delighted to announce a new intake of the National Australia Bank‘s Work Placement Learning Program for 2010.

Details of a briefing session, which will provide prospective applicants with an opportunity to find out more about the program, are as follows:

Where: NAB Auditorium, Ground Floor 800 Bourke St Docklands
When: Tuesday December 8th
Attendees: People meeting selection criteria for the positions (attached)
Time: 5.30pm-6.30 pm.
Attire: Business
RSVP: by 3 December to Jade.Camilleri@nab.com.au

Role descriptions and selection criteria for the positions are attached.

In summary

Two positions in Group Finance - NAB Docklands, Melbourne
Four positions in Lending Services - NAB Spencer St., Melbourne
Focus – learning in the context of a paid work placement
Duration - 6 months
Applicants - qualified African - Australians who meet all selection criteria
Interviews – mid January
Positions commencing – February 2010

Applications will close on 23rd December 2009
Applications to be forwarded to jss@jss.org.au – attention Pamela Webb

Interpreting course

2009-12-07T13:48:00.002+11:00

VMC is currently offering $2000 scholarships to cover the costs of the interpreter course at RMIT for Tamil and Dinka. Please contact Leah Bramhill (below) for further information. Applications close 7th January.

Leah Bramhill
Project Officer - Language Services
Victorian Multicultural Commission
Level 3, 3 Treasury Place
MELBOURNE VIC 3000

GPO Box 4698
Melbourne 3000

Ph 9651 0675
Leah.Bramhill@vmc.vic.gov.au

Media called to account

2009-12-07T13:45:00.000+11:00

Beat The Heat

2009-12-07T13:36:00.002+11:00

Koorie night market

2009-12-07T13:33:00.001+11:00

English version - Vietnamese men behaviour change

2009-12-07T13:28:00.000+11:00

2009-12-07T13:22:00.000+11:00

Getting to know the law

2009-12-07T13:17:00.000+11:00

Keeping perspective

2009-12-07T13:07:00.002+11:00

Fitzroy Computer Clubhouse Competition

2009-10-28T16:53:00.001+11:00

Members of the community are invited to the Fitzroy Computer Clubhouse Exhibition - our annual celebration of our members work and achievements in the last 12 months. At our Exhibition you will be able to see the work members have produced to date including websites, robotics, games, animation, photographic and video work, and more. There will also be refreshments and a Halal BBQ.

The Exhibition will open on Thursday 5th November from 5:30pm to 7:30pm at the Computer Clubhouse, 198 Napier St. The exhibition will also be open Friday 6th November 3:30pm-6:30pm.

The Fitzroy Computer Clubhouse is a program of the Fitzroy Learning Network and provides a safe and creative after-school learning environment where young people from underserved communities work with adult mentors to explore their own ideas, develop skills and build confidence in themselves through the use of technology.

With over 120 members aged 8-18 from seventeen different cultural backgrounds, the Fitzroy Computer Clubhouse not only provides access to high end technology, but also provides a space for young people to learn collaboration, cooperation and “giving back”, which will ensure that as citizens they contribute to the larger community in a positive and meaningful way.

Many of our members come from refugee backgrounds and the Computer Clubhouse gives them the opportunity to work one on one with mentors and staff to build confidence and improve the quality of their education.

The Fitzroy Computer Clubhouse is non-government funded. We rely on the generosity of philanthropic organisations, business and the community to continue to provide this unique program to over 120 young people, most from refugee backgrounds. There are many ways to support the clubhouse from funding, in kind donations, to offering work experience opportunities to members.

In 2008, 5 clubhouse members achieved entry into university at the completion of year 12. All from refugee backgrounds, 4 of them had never gone to school before arriving in Australia. The Fitzroy Computer Clubhouse supported these members in applying through VTAC for entry as well as applying for scholarships. All of these members are the first in their family to attend university.

A member of the Intel Computer Clubhouse Network, the Fitzroy Computer Clubhouse regularly undertakes independent assessment of the program. Recently the results of our Youth Impact Survey were released and it was found that a high percentage of youth who attend the clubhouse plan to graduate high school, and there are positive associations between length of Clubhouse stay and attitudes. For example, members who visit their Clubhouses for more than 3 hours at a time tend to score higher on social-emotional scales (such as collaboration, sense of future, and sense of belonging) than members who visit for less than an hour. We look forward to seeing you there!

CROC Celebration

2009-10-21T13:49:00.002+11:00

Beat the Heat

2009-10-21T13:45:00.000+11:00

Employment with AMES

2009-10-21T13:37:00.001+11:00

The AMES Settlement Division is advertising a new position, detailed below:

Manager Initial Accommodation
Settlement Division
Inner west location
Grade 4.1
1.0 time fraction
Fixed term to 30 June 2010

The Settlement Division is looking to open a new initial accommodation facility in the western suburbs of Melbourne. Applications are invited from suitably qualified applicants to be part of this start up team.

Infoxchange -
http://www.jobseeker.org.au/employment/results.chtml?filename_num=296508
(listed as Housing Manager - Initial Accommodation)

AMES - www.ames.net.au/vacancies

Closing date is COB Thursday 29 October 2009.

If you wish to be considered for either of these positions, please
submit:
● Your current resume
● A cover letter
● Details of how your skills and background address the Duties and Primary Responsibilities from the relevant position description.

Please email applications to HR at apply@ames.net.au. Any queries can be directed to Linda Coutts, on 9938-4794.

African Parenting Guide

2009-10-06T13:34:00.001+11:00

Tsunami in Samoa

2009-10-06T13:31:00.003+11:00

Carlton Neighbourhood Learning Centre Inc is collecting items to donate to families affected by the recent tsunami in Samoa। They are sending two containers on October 18th. The items they would like to receive include:

Clothing (summer)
Bedding/linen/pillows
Tinned Food
Cutlery/ crockery/ glasses
Hygiene products soap/toothbrushes/toothpaste/combs/brushes/feminine products analgesics wheelchairs
tools hammers/nails/saws/screws/screwdrivers
refrigerators
chairs/stackable)
tables (foldable)

I am sure anything we can do to help would be appreciated!

Wanted! Keen, Green Volunteers!

2009-10-01T10:54:00.001+10:00

Pverty and Homelessness: It's all their fault - isn't it?

2009-10-01T09:17:00.004+10:00

New administrator

2009-09-21T13:26:00.002+10:00

Hi everyone!

I am Melinie Ridge, I will be taking over from Maggie Abdelmalak, while she is on maternity leave, and working as the new Casework Counsellor – Refugee Support Worker at North Yarra Community Health. I realise I have big shoes to fill in Maggie’s absence; however I really look forward to working in close collaboration with you on the Yarra Settlement Forum.

I will also be the new administrator for this blog. This blog is a great way to share our thoughts and ideas, so I encourage you all to have your say. In addition, I would love to hear any suggestions from you about how we can get more use out of it or how we can improve it.

Thanks
Melinie

ICEPA AT VICTORIA UNIVERSITY INVITES ...

2009-04-09T11:11:00.001+10:00

ICEPA AT VICTORIA UNIVERSITY INVITES YOU TO A PUBLIC SEMINAR:

CULTURAL RESPONSES TO EMERGENCIES: BUSHFIRES, SAFETY and CRISES

Culture is an important part of who we are as individuals and as a community. How we respond to emergencies and adverse situations both in practical and emotional terms is influenced by our culture. Also important is the role of culture in how we communicate emergency messages and how we express grief. In the aftermath of the Victorian bushfires, this seminar draws attention to important considerations of cultural and linguistic diversity in responding to emergency and in healing and rebuilding communities.

This seminar will explore the issues and challenges that arise when engaging with CALD communities during emergency situations, including effective forms of communication during emergency procedures, creating awareness about fire prevention, cultural knowledge of managing bush fires and assessing risk and community needs.

SPEAKERS

Christine Nixon has extensive experience addressing the needs of a wide range of communities through her career in the police service. As Chair of the Victorian Bushfire Reconstruction and Recovery Authority, Christine coordinates the activities of all local, state and Commonwealth Government agencies, and community organisations involved in helping communities affected by February’s bushfires. Her priority is to help communities recover and rebuild in a way that is safe, timely, efficient, and respectful of each community’s needs. Prior to joining the Authority in March this year, Christine was the Chief Commissioner of Victoria Police from 2001 - 2009. She joined Victoria Police in April 2001, after serving with the New South Wales Police from 1972 in a variety of roles.

Andrew Zammit is a Commander with the Metropolitan Fire Brigade focussing on the Brigade’s response to the bushfires; and recommendations coming out of the Bushfire Royal Commission. Since joining the Brigade in 1987 as a firefighter, Andrew has been involved in a wide range of professional activities including responding to fires and other emergencies, community education, recruitment training courses, and peer support. Recently, Andrew has been the officer in charge of the MFB’s Emergency Medical Response (EMR) team, and director of the Media and Communications Directorate. Andrew’s breadth of knowledge around emergency response includes working with CALD communities and emergency prevention, preparedness, response and recovery.

WHEN: Wednesday 22 April 2009

TIME: 9.30 - 10am registration, with morning tea. Seminar:10.00am - 12.00pm

WHERE: Ballroom A, Rendevous Hotel (Melways 2009 ref: Map 1A J9)
328 Flinders Street, Melbourne

RSVP essential: Contact Sue Butterworth by Monday 20 April
Phone: 9919 5478
Email: Sue.Butterworth@vu.edu.au

The Outdoor Experience

2009-04-09T11:09:00.002+10:00

Hi everyone,

Just a reminder about the upcoming TOE program for any young males, aged 15 – 25 who have or have had issues with alcohol and/or other drugs. Referrals don’t necessarily have to be participants/clients of Jesuit Social Services or other community programs; they could be family members, friends, associates, anyone who fits the criteria. Please feel free to contact any TOE staff with any questions or to discuss any potential referrals on. Ph. 9855 2633.

Information Session at 2pm on Wednesday 22nd April 2009 at the Bush Hut

Please let us know if you have someone who will be attending the information session.
We are also available to come and talk to staff groups/participant groups if they think this might be beneficial.

PROGRAM DATES: 11th May 2009 through to 19th June 2009

TOE’s 6 week Core program includes a 2 week pre-trip program:
Day activities (Monday – Friday) at the Bush Hut, getting to know each other,
trip planning and preparation,
outdoor activities, skill development, goal setting

Followed by an
11 day/10 night remote wilderness journey

And then a
2 week post-trip program:
Day activities at the Bush Hut (Monday to Friday), processing the experience, where to from here,
3 day camp to reinforce learnings and set future goals
Graduation celebration on last day!

Fiona Cameron
Program Co-ordinator
TOE: The Outdoor Experience

Jesuit Social Services
110 Studley Park Road
Kew VIC 3101
Phone: 03 9855 2633
Fax: 03 9855 1425
Mobile: 0427 034 544
Email: fiona.cameron@jss.org.au
Web: http://www.jss.org.au/

Fundraising Dinner for Chin Refugees

2009-04-09T11:01:00.001+10:00

Dear all,
Please find attached invitation to special dinner.
This is a fund raising for Chin refugees in the west who has no place to have worship. They have come from Myanmar where they could not have worship service freely for the fear of Burmese Soldiers even though there was a place for worship. After they arrived in Australia there is no fear for having worship service but there is no place. They have been moving from one place to another place in finding a big enough place for worship since 2006. However, in the west region there is no Church that can fit them (200+ members). So, they decided to build their own Church in the West even though they do not have enough money. So, it would be greatly appreciated if you could support them by coming to this special dinner.
thanks
Peng Ling
Case Coordinator
AMES Settlement
Werribee/Footscray Office.
Mob:0411 091 737

Fitzroy Ball

2009-04-07T13:22:00.000+10:00

Fitzroy Ball May 16th 2009 from 7:00pmThe FLN Fundraising Committee is pleased to invite you to the Fitzroy Ball, our major fundraiser of the year. This year's theme is Bohemian. There'll be music, live performances and entertainment through the evening with a fantastic African Banquet catered by the Sorghum Sisters. Tickets @ $55 or $33 for Volunteers (inc GST). Buy 7 tickets and get the 8th free. Tables available for group bookings or come sit with the Network at our communal table. It's going to be a fantastic night but it won't happen without you there. Please call 9417 2897 or email admin@fitzroylearningnetwork.org.au to book your seats or if you have any other queries.
Please see here for more details.
We hope to hear from you soon.

Fitzroy Learning Network
198 Napier St
Fitzroy VIC 3065

Fitzroy Legal Service Distributes Free Law Handbooks

2009-03-26T16:18:00.002+11:00

Fitzroy Legal Service Distributes Free Law Handbooks

With the support of the City of Yarra, Fitzroy Legal Service will present 100 Law Handbooks free of charge to local community agencies and residents.

WHAT: Professional Education forums targeted at community workers, advocates, engaged groups and those living in the City of Yarra. Attendee's will receive a free copy of the Law Handbook.

WHEN: Friday 3rd & Monday 6th April 2009 9.30am - 1pm

WHERE: FITZROY TOWN HALL - Reading Room

"Resourcing the Community to Access Justice"

"By developing an understanding of a person's place in the legal environment, community workers, advocates and members are much better placed to work towards the basic priniciples of justice - tolerance, fairness and equity".

These forums will:
Enhance understanding of legal problems and processes.
Enhance understanding of a range of legal and procedural issues and improve practical skills.

Session 1: Friday 3rd April 9.30am - 1pm

Tailored to Drug & Alcohol and Youth Workers
* Therapeutic Justice & the Neighbourhood Justice Centre
* Drugs Issues and the Law
* Dealing with the Criminal justice system/ writing Court reports

Session 2: Monday 6th April 9.30am - 1pm

Tailored to workers who have clients experiencing Family Violence or are involved in the Child Protection system
* Sexual Assault
* Family Violence
* Child Protection

PLEASE CONTACT BEC SMITH FOR FURTHER INFORMATION AND REGISTRATION FORM bsmith@fitzroy-legal.org.au or 9419 3744.

Trouble on Atherton Gardens Estate

2009-03-19T10:47:00.002+11:00

Hi everyone,

Firstly - thanks Maggie for inviting me to this blog. My name is Tony Brewin and I am a Youth Resource Officer for Victoria Police, stationed at Fitzroy Police. I have worked in Yarra for 14 years (before it was called Yarra).

An issue has been bubbling away and I think I should bring it to your attention.

Basically there are far too many young children of an African background (mainly Sudanese - although there is 1 Liberian family I'm concerned about also) left unattended on the Atherton Gardens estate each afternoon and into the evenings. At this stage the children are getting up to minor mischief i.e. - scuffles, minor bullying and theft. However, I have no doubt whatsoever that if this continues for the next few years - many of these children will be criminals. I have seen it before.

The level of supervision of children generally is unacceptable on the estate and I think we need a holistic approach to avoid a tragic future for many of these children and their families and the Fitzroy community in general.

Please let me know what you think about this - I'm happy to speak to the forum if you think this may help.

Cheers,

Tony

English for Bilingual Workers

2008-10-28T10:26:00.010+11:00

Faculty of Further Education

English for Bilingual Health Workers

Do you have some experience and /or interest in working in the health sector?
Do you want to use your bilingual skills?

English for Bilingual Health Workers is an accredited intermediate English language course that will help you develop your language skills, whilst gaining skills and knowledge relevant to working in the health sector. The course will be based on the ESL Frameworks curriculum. Students who satisfactorily complete all modules will be awarded Certificate III in ESL Employment, and relevant training package units.

The aim of this specialised course is to improve students’ reading, writing, listening and speaking skills to assist them in finding employment in the health sector using their bilingual and bicultural skills, and/or to undertake further study.

Bilingual health workers may find employment in community health centres, hospitals, health promotion organisations, or women’s health centres, in roles such as administration worker, client access worker, or health educator.

Course content
· English language study at intermediate level
· Introduction to the health sector
· Workplace skills relevant to the health sector
· Exploring employment and further study options leading to work in the health sector

How you will learn
· Individual and group tasks
· Computer training, including Internet
· Guest speakers from the health sector
· Visits to health sector organisations
· Research and presentation projects
· Work placements
When: Commencing February 2009, date to be confirmed
How long: 20 hours a week x 36 weeks
Where: NMIT Collingwood Campus
20 Otter St, Collingwood
Cost: approx $248 - to be confirmed
(support with fees may be available)
For further information phone: Rachel Wilson on 9269 1081 email: rachelwilson@nmit.vic.edu.au
or Anne Giddens on 9269 8320

English for Bilingual Health Workers
Information Session and Assessment

If you would like to find out more about this course you will need to attend an Information Session. You will also need to have an assessment of your English language skills to ensure that this course is right for you.

An Information Session will be held at the NMIT Collingwood Campus on:

Thursday 11th December 2008
10.00 a.m. – 12.00 p.m.

The Information Session will be held in Building A, Room A213 (enter from Otter St).

If you would like to attend this session, please contact Rachel Wilson or Anne Giddens to let us know you are coming.

When: Commencing February 2009, date to be confirmed
How long: 20 hours a week x 36 weeks
Where: NMIT Collingwood Campus
20 Otter St, Collingwood
Cost: approx $248 - to be confirmed
(support with fees may be available)
For further information phone: Rachel Wilson on 9269 1081 email: rachelwilson@nmit.vic.edu.au
or Anne Giddens on 9269 8320

Understanding Money Flyer

2008-10-13T11:18:00.003+11:00

Understanding Money Training

The Office of Women’s Policy has provided funding for Berry Street’s Sudanese Family Strengthening Project to deliver FREE ‘Understanding Money’ financial literacy training to men and women who live in the Northern Metropolitan Region.

What is it? This is about understanding your money and making informed choices and decisions about it. As we know, our money can affect our everyday lives, our family relationships and our health and wellbeing.

We hope that this training will help to improve your understanding of your money and your financial situation.

Details: This is three day training-

Monday 3^rd November, Thursday 6^th November, Friday 7^th November

Time: 9.30am- 2.30pm

Place: Fitzroy Library, 128 Moor Street, Fitzroy

Car: On street parking (restricted)

Tram: 112 (along Brunswick Street)/ 86 (Along Smith Street)

Bus: 200, 201, 207

Child Care: Will be provided free of charge. When you respond to say that you are coming to the training, we will ask about childcare and tell you the details. It is very close to the library.

Note: Lunch and morning tea will be provided with this training. Let us know if you have special food needs.

Respond: Please contact the Sudanese Family Support Workers by the 24^th October as numbers are restricted.

Contact Details:

William Abur

wabur@berrystreet.org.au

0437 251 843

Nafisa Ali Mohamed

nmohamed@berrystreet.org.au

0427 833 990

Good News: Everyone that takes part in the three day training will receive a FREE monthly Metcard ticket- thanks to Women’s Health in the North and Traveller’s Aid

Everyone who participates in the training will receive a Completion Certificate

SGP IHSS Forum 31 October 08

2008-10-13T11:16:00.002+11:00

Date for your Diary:

SGP/IHSS Forum

Topic:

Mental Health

The Forum will provide an opportunity to explore the following issues:

· The impact of mental health issues in client communities?

· How the subject of mental health can be addressed with communities?

· What are the communities’ perceptions of counselling and mental health services are?

· What services are available and how our clients can access those services?

· How can the referral process be improved?

· What are the issues and challenges that your organisation encounters in working with refugee communities?

Mental Health practitioners will give a presentation and a panel of community members (from the Iraqi, Burmese, Afghani and Sudanese communities) will share issues from their community.

Forum Date: 31 October 2008

Time: 9:30 am - 1:00pm

Where: Multicultural Hub
506-510 Elizabeth Street Melbourne VIC 3000

Space is limited to 60, to secure your attendance please RSVP to barici@ames.net.au by 21 October 2008.

Commonwealth Bank Grants Program

2008-08-04T10:51:00.001+10:00

Applications are now open for the 2008 Commonwealth Bank Foundation Financial Literacy Grants and Local Grants programs.

The Financial Literacy Grants are awarded to secondary schools to support financial literacy education programs. The program awards $3,500 grants to 100 secondary schools across Australia. All Government, Catholic and Independent secondary schools with students from years 7 to 12 are eligible to apply. Applications close 17 September 2008.
Further details can be located on the following link:
http://www.commbank.com.au/foundation/

To be eligible to apply for a Local Grant the organisation needs to:- Support the health and wellbeing of Australian children.- Identify realistic, measurable and achievable project goals and outcomes.- Be endorsed by the Australian Tax Office with Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR) status.
Applications close 5 September 2008 and further details can be obtained on the following link:
http://about.commbank.com.au/group_display/0%2C1696%2CTS16848%2C00.html

YSF June Minutes

2008-07-30T16:13:00.000+10:00

http://docs.google.com/Doc?id=dfxrms2t_65c85xbzck

AMEP Review Discussion Paper

2008-07-30T11:44:00.004+10:00

A review of the Adult Migrant English Program (AMEP) commenced in February 2008. The AMEP Review aims to address a number of issues associated with the delivery and administration of the AMEP.

The AMEP Review Discussion Paper is a part of the AMEP Review’s consultation process which focuses on key issues raised in focus groups. You are invited to make a written submission in response to the Discussion Paper. Your input will help to enact changes likely to lead to improved settlement outcomes for new arrivals.

Details on how to submit your response are in the Discussion Paper, which is available to download as a PDF file from the following page:
www.immi.gov.au/living-in-australia/delivering-assistance/amep-review-paper.htm

Submissions are due by 15 August 2008.

DIAC follow-up to last YSF meeting

2008-07-08T10:13:00.003+10:00

Good practice guide to empower new refugees settling in Australia
Friday, 20 June 2008

A collection of successful settlement projects will boost community interest in similar initiatives and assist Australia’s humanitarian arrivals in adjusting to their new home, Parliamentary Secretary for Multicultural Affairs and Settlement Services Laurie Ferguson said while launching a good practice guide on World Refugee. Empowering Refugees: A Good Practice Guide to Humanitarian Settlement showcases 29 successful projects – in the government and non-government sectors – from around Australia in key areas such as health, education, employment, law and community harmony. The Guide can be downloaded from: http://www.immi.gov.au/media/publications/settle/empowering_refugees/index.htm

Grants to help refugees with citizenship test
Wednesday 18 June 2008

The Australian Government will provide $3.4 million in grants to help refugees and other people who require special assistance prepare for the Australian citizenship test, the Minister for Immigration and Citizenship, Senator Chris Evans, announced during Refugee Week. See the full release at: http://www.minister.immi.gov.au/media/media-releases/2008/ce08055.htm

New Hope Migrant and Refugee Centre has been funded to provide this assistance in Inner Melbourne, which includes the City of Yarra.

Australia balances refugee priorities
Friday 20 June 2008

Australia’s refugee and humanitarian intake for 2008-09 will help provide a new life for 13 500 people who have fled their troubled homelands in Africa, Asia and the Middle East. Announcing the regional allocations for Australia’s Humanitarian Program on World Refugee Day, the Minister for Immigration and Citizenship, Senator Chris Evans said that Africa, the Middle East and Asia will each be allocated a 33 percent intake, with the remaining one percent allocated for contingencies. See the full release at: http://www.minister.immi.gov.au/media/media-releases/2008/ce08056.htm

VCAL/Hospitality Taster Program

2008-06-19T11:14:00.002+10:00

NMIT
Youth Unit / Faculty Of Hospitality, Tourism and Personal Services
VCAL / Hospitality
Industry Services:
Taster Program

(Click on image to view larger document)

YSF May Minutes

2008-06-18T11:25:00.003+10:00

You can view minutes by clicking onn the following link:

http://docs.google.com/Doc?id=dfxrms2t_63hr9rqphg

Please note that the venue for the next YSF has changed to:

The Fitzroy Learning Network

198 Napier St, Fitzroy

( Phone 9417 2897)

Refugee Week Celebrations - Click on image to enlarge

2008-05-29T14:06:00.005+10:00

Take Action! Lobby the UN to Provide Humanitarian Relief in Sudan Now

2008-05-28T15:49:00.014+10:00

Tuesday 27th May, 2008 - Fitzroy Learning Network supported the Melbourne based Sudanese community group, Dinka Ngok Abyei Community Association of Australia, who have lost many family and friends in the past weeks from Abyei, the oil rich point of contention between Northern and Southern Sudan.

They are outraged and shocked at the lack of response from UN forces regarding the latest series of violent attacks in Abyei. Dressed in black, to symbolise their family's deaths over oil, they took to the city streets en-masse and presented to parliament their requests to demilitarise the area and deploy UN forces into Abyei immediately.

"STOP EXTREMIST GOVT. KILLING INNOCENT PEOPLE IN SUDANPROVIDE HUMANITARIAN RELIEF NOW

This week we have lost sons & daughters, sisters & brothers, mothers & fathers, husbands & wives. Our families"

Please see http://www.fitzroylearningnetwork.org.au/sudan.html for more details.

Yarra Settlement Forum 27/05/08

2008-05-22T14:04:00.002+10:00

Agenda for 27 May 2008

Fitzroy Town Hall - Cnr of Napier and Moore Street ( Enter from Moore st)

11-1pm

1. Wlcome and Apologies

2. Acknowledgement of Counrty

3. New Business
Guest Speaker Mary Danckert - Youth Support and Development Manager
Centre for Multicultural Youth Issues www.cmyi.net.au

****lunch****

4.Business
a. Refugee Week Celebration June 25
b. Information Sharing

Next Meeting
June 24 - Guest Speaker: Joe Morris - Yarra Drug and Health Forum

YSF Meeting Attendance 22/04/08

2008-05-22T12:54:00.003+10:00

Yarra Settlement Forum

Tuesday 22 April

Fitzroy Town Hall

Present
Name	Organisation & Email
Maggie Abdelmalak	North Yarra Community health
Nelum Buddhadasa	City of Yarra
Vicky Fisher	Ames Settlement FisherV@amesnet.au
Sasha Findlay	Red Cross sfindlay@redcross.org.au
Heather Stock	Fitzroy Learning Network
Steve O’Malley	MFB
Colette Bacash	New Hope Migrant Resource Centre
Kerry Wise	JSS
Michael Abdilla	DIAC
Warren Crosbie	3ZZZ
Anne Joiner	Collingwood English Language school
Meghan Fitzgerald	Fitzroy Legal Service
Belinda Lo	Fitzroy Legal Service
Joe Morris	Yarra Drug and Health Forum
Colleen Duggen	Fitzroy Learning Network
Denise Williams	FKA Children’s Services
Kate Smith	BSL
Kerrie Mannina	Fitzroy Learning Network
Apologies
Abby and Judy	Smith Family
Tim Watson	City of Yarra
Maria Palomares	Centrelink
Mary Walsh	Collingwood English Language school
Janet Williams-Smith	BSL
Chrisouls Kanaris	New Hope MRC

Fitzroy Legal Service Presentation - YSF 22/05/08

2008-05-22T11:22:00.001+10:00

WORKING WITH CALD COMMUNITIES & DEALING WITH THE LAW

Introduction

Some Common Issues Arising

The Role of Non Legal & Legal Workers

A Closer Look at Some Specific Areas of Law

Family

Centrelink

Infringement & Driving Offences

Contracts

Criminal Matters

Migration

Introduction

Legal Practice (Duty Lawyer NJC, Criminal & Family Lawyer, Lawyer dealing with Infringement matters, & Drug Outreach Lawyer)

Social Action Team (Advocacy, Legal Projects & Community Legal Education)

Free Legal Night Service (Monday to Friday 6 to 9.30 PM)

Free Access to Interpreters

Some Common Issues

Language, culture, experiences
High levels of regulation in society
Role of various authorities
Bureaucratic expectations
Expectations of fairness
Discrimination & racism
Confidentiality and reputation (issues with accessing assistance)
Ignorance of the law not an excuse

The Role of Non Legal & Legal Workers

Preventative roles (community legal education)

Flexible limits on roles

Outer limit is prohibition on non lawyers providing legal advice, and risks for lawyers crossing ethical boundaries

A great deal of legal work can involve

Accessing and sharing information
Making appropriate and timely referrals

Accessing and sharing information

Sources of law & information about the law
Sources of free legal information or advice
Sources of free specialist legal advice

Making timely & appropriate referrals

Identifying crystallizing moment when lawyer required
Not always clear
Looking for elements of reliance/ vulnerability, potential for loss/ detriment, complexity of response required
Examples: criminal & civil matters

Family Law

Inclusive of: marriage, separation & divorce, property settlement, family arrangements regarding children, child support payments (Family Law Act)
Linked to issues of family violence (Family Violence Act), or contact with protective services (Children Youth and Families Act)

Some Examples

Woman has been married in Ethiopia and is divorced in a traditional fashion
She has no contact with ex spouse since living in refugee camp
Now wants to get divorced under Australian law

Woman has daughter of thirteen and is concerned the child’s father may take her back home to be married without her knowledge

Family enters Australia and includes extra sibling as a child of the marriage who is the mother’s child only
Birth dates altered to reflect this arrangement in a simplified fashion
Relationship breaks down and ex husband becomes frustrated paying child support for the said child

Woman living with children and husband and subjected to violence, intimidation or the like
She does not believe she can leave the relationship for reasons of housing/ financial/ residency status

How would you approach these?

Centrelink

Example

Woman is receiving single mother’s benefit and doing some casual work

She does not read English & has limited English language

Her ten year old daughter fills out her forms and has made some reports of earnings

Over the course of time she is overpaid

She has a social worker but finds her difficult to contact

She has never had access to an interpreter

What should have happened

Client should have been able to speak to Centrelink in her own language by calling 13 1202

Her office should have been able to organize free of charge translation of all documents

She shuld have been able to access Centrelink information online in her own language

What did happen

Client had legal assistance to appeal the initial decision in the Social Security Appeals Tribunal and to defend criminal charges of fraud
Though her evidence was accepted she was found guilty and received a criminal conviction as well as repayment orders
She is now finding it very difficult to find employment though she has received nursing training and done English language studies

Infringement & Driving Offences

Common charges include: drive without license, drive unregistered vehicle, drive whilst disqualified/ suspended, traffic offences (Road Safety Act), failure to show identification & infringement offences
At initial stages may be discretion & opportunity to make representations
Later important to facilitate legal advice if possible

Contracts

Basic principles: offer, acceptance, intention to create legal relations, consideration
Fair Trading Act offers consumer protection against unfairness: e.g. punitive terms, unconscionable conduct, misrepresentation
Power differentials can be significant

Criminal Matters

Right to an interpreter at interview
Right to make telephone calls
Right to silence
Right to freedom of movement unless placed under arrest
Right to be released from custody within a reasonable time if being questioned & to be granted bail
Referrals
RILC
ASRC
Springvale Monash LS
Whittlesea CLC

Migration Referrals

RILC
ASRC
Springvale Monash Legal Service
Whittlesea Community Legal Centre

Conclusion

Issues of language, culture & experience can make interaction with the law significantly more complex & create the need for more intensive ongoing support
Services the not for profit legal sector can offer include legal education, provision of written resources, generalist & specialized legal advice, referrals
Particularly useful contact points Victoria Legal Aid & the Federation of Community Legal Centres

DIAC Community Relations Funding Announced

2008-05-09T10:27:00.001+10:00

Community Relations funding is available to help incorporated non-profit organisations address issues of cultural, racial and religious intolerance. Projects should target all people living in a community or local government area and promote respect, fairness, inclusion and a sense of belonging for everyone.

In 2008, $1.5 million has been made available for Community Relations funding activities including $100 000 to assist smaller organisations. Under this new arrangement, amounts of up to $5000 will be available for smaller and less complex projects. Major projects will be allocated funding of between $5000 and $50 000.

Objectives of the Community Relations funding
The objectives of the Australian Government’s Community Relations funding include the promotion of:

· the importance of all Australians respecting one another regardless of cultural, racial or religious difference

· the fair treatment of all Australians, encouraging people to recognise that our interactions should be accepting of, and responsive to people’s backgrounds, circumstances, needs and preferences

· opportunities for people to participate in Australian society and to understand the rights and responsibilities that we share as part of that society

· a sense of belonging for everyone by helping communities work towards a peaceful, progressive and prosperous future

· understanding and acceptance by the broader community of Australia’s changing demographics.

How to apply
There are separate guidelines for small grants and for larger grants with a two-stage process used for this funding. Organisations are required to submit an Expression of Interest and those projects that are short-listed are invited to submit a supplementary application form. See: Community Relations Projects Expression of Interest form <http://www.harmony.gov.au/grants/_pdf/projects-eoi-form.doc> (3.9MB Word file).

Expressions of Interest should be lodged through the following email address:
communityrelationsfunding@immi.gov.au. The deadline for submitting completed applications and expressions of interest is 6.00pm Friday 23 May 2008.

For further information see the website: http://www.harmony.gov.au/grants/index.htm
or telephone: 1800 782 002 or email: communityrelationsfunding@immi.gov.au.

Youth radio: SYN 90.7 FM

2008-05-07T14:51:00.005+10:00

Student Radio is thriving in Melbourne, and some of it is multicultural!

SYN (Student Youth Network) 90.7 FM syn.org.au
Facebook: facebook.com/pages/SYN/20627322080

I've asked if any SYN volunteers might be interested in DJing for the Refugee Week Celebrations, Fitzroy Wednesday 25 June, and I've given them my mobile and Maggie's landline.

Prospective disc-spinners will probably want to know more about when the music might be required, who'll be in the audience, what equipment will be set up, and how their work will need to fit in with other entertainers and speakers, etc.

2008-04-21T12:54:00.001+10:00

Yarra Settlement Forum

Minutes of Meeting March 25

Fitzroy Town Hall

Chair Nelum

Minutes Maggie

Present

Name

Organisation

Maggie Abdelmalak

North Yarra Community Health

Heather Stock

Fitzroy Learning Network

Colleen Duggen

Fitzroy Learning Network

Nelum Buddhadasa

City of Yarra

Chrisoula Kanaris

The New Hope Migrant and Refugee Centre

Steve O'Malley

Metropolitan Fire Brigade

Julie Palmer

NMIT - YAMEC

Meg Johnston

NMIT YAMEC Volunteer

Jonathan Aitken

NYCH

Kerry Wise

Jesuit Social Services

Tim Watson

City of Yarra

Amira Rahmanovic

Multicultural Centre for Women's Health (MCWH)

Apologies

Collette Bacash

New Hope Migrant Refugee Centre

Richard Williams

JSS

Karyn Adams

JSS

Business

Nelum welcomed all attendees with an Acknowledgement of Country.

Refugee Week

15 - 21st June. An organising committee be formed to plan event. - Maggie to convene meeting Date not yet confirmed.

Multicultural Centre for Women's Health - Amira Rahmanovic

Provided background on organisation.

Targets all women from CALD backgrounds - specially industry with high employment rates of CALD women, including hospitality and textiles
Provide community workshop program - free
Modules include: Sexual and Reproductive Health; Occupational Health and Safety; Mental Health and Well being; Drug and Alcohol; Gambling; Safe use of medicines; Financial
15 bilingual educators employed - some with medical backgrounds
Sessions run over 6 workshops
Folders containing translated materials provided
4 weeks notice for booking sessions preferred
Cross-cultural training available at cost
They have the 'largest' multilingual library in Victoria available to people who are members
Community workshop sessions can be provided at ANY time of the day.

Working Groups:

Transitions: have continued to meet and are now establishing a clearer understanding of transitions impact from one benefit to another
Youth: members of the Youth group presented at the 'Young people, crime and community safety: engagement and early intervention conference
New Families: Agenda for next forum will include Driving School, Driving Program and Dinka School

Meeting Close

Cross-culture courses starting 1st May 08

2008-04-14T14:42:00.003+10:00

Cross-cultural communicator training courses
Call for people working in their local community across Collingwood, Fitzroy and Richmond estates
8 weeks x 4 hours of ACCREDITED NMIT TRAINING plus an extra 20 hours volunteer community placement
Courses are free. Participants will receive a certificate at the end of training.

Thursday morning: 1 May – 18 June 08
OR Saturday morning: 3 May – 21 June 08

please contact Kerry Wise on 0447 338 033 or kerry.wise@jss.org.au

3ZZZ 92.3FM, Wednesday 9 April with Olivia & Murugi

2008-04-04T10:44:00.026+11:00

Radio 3ZZZ 92.3 FM, Wednesday 9 April 2008, 7-8am

Local agencies: What do they do?

How can they use radio to publicise their projects/campaigns/programs?

How can 3ZZZ encourage more guests and volunteers to get involved in 'Starting Out' and other innovative programs on 3ZZZ?

Jambo Australia!
This is Starting Out on radio 3ZZZ. On the program today ... (see details below). AND We want you! So please have a listen, and if you'd like to know more about getting involved please give us a call (phone 9415 1923) at the end of the program. (Repeat in Swahili.)

Draft schedule
All times are approximate & interviews are subject to change at any time.

7am: Introduction by Murugi & Olivia.

7:05: Phone interview with Colette Bacash, Settlement Support Worker, New Hope Migrant and Refugee Centre, see http://www.nhf.org.au/Text/1096527700968-6170/About-the-NHMRC

Discus "Information Sessions for Newly Arrived African Women" e.g.

16 April: Health & Nutrition at AMES Collingwood (Collingwood Secondary College) Cromwell Street, Collingwood
23 April, Health & Nutrition, North Yarra Community Health Centre, 365 Hoddle Street, Collingwood (near Johnston Street).

7:15: About us; and any news from old friends.

7:30: Oxfam's Brendan Ross

The story behind Oxfam's recent Refugee Realities exhibition.

7:40: Ms Dee Basinski from VicHealth.

VicHealth runs many projects about Mental Health & Wellbeing Discrimination and Violence and the links between violence against women and mental health. To quote:
Intimate partner violence is responsible for more ill-health and premature death in Victorian women under the age of 45 than any other of the well-known risk factors, including high blood pressure, obesity and smoking; 58% of the health impact experienced by women is anxiety and depression.
VicHealth has developed a public health model for the prevention ofviolence against women, which classifies interventions as primary, early intervention and intervention. More at: http://www.vichealth.vic.gov.au/Content.aspx?topicID=115

And also, to mark next week’s World Health Day (Monday 7 April), comedian Akmal Saleh and former Premier, Steve Bracks, will launch a TV commercial, that has been produced by the Spectrum Migrant Resource Centre (SMRC), featuring high profile celebrities and community leaders from a wide variety of ethnic backgrounds, as part of their Family Men Don’t do Family Violence campaign to prevent the incidence of family violence. Akmal Saleh said:
I've put my name and face to this campaign because I believe that hearing from other men, like me, that family violence is not on, will help the message get through. I’m often making jokes, but family violence is no laughing matter. The campaign title is true – family men don’t do family violence.

7:53: Ending.

What's coming up 'Starting Out' in two weeks?
Starting Out is sponsored by the City of Yarra.
Call us now: 9415 1923.

8.00: 3ZZZ Greek Youth program.

See also Yarra Settlement Forum blog

Yarra Settlement Forum February Minutes

2008-03-19T17:05:00.000+11:00

Please click on title to be redirected to the minutes.

2008-03-13T10:42:00.003+11:00

INFORMATION SESSIONS FOR NEWLY ARRIVED AFRICAN WOMEN

When: Every Wednesday from April 16 to June 4
Location: City of Yarra
Time: 12.00 - 2.00pm
Lunch Included

Sessions include information on:

· Health & Nutrition
· Finances & Budgeting
· Child & Family Safety
· Parenting
· Australian Law & Government

Date
Presentation
Location
16 April
Health & Nutrition

AMES Collingwood (Collingwood Secondary College)
Cromwell Street, Collingwood

23 April
Health & Nutrition
North Yarra Community Health Centre
365 Hoddle Street, Collingwood
(near Johnston Street)

30 April
Parenting
AMES Collingwood (Collingwood Secondary College)
Cromwell Street, Collingwood

7 May
Parenting
AMES Collingwood (Collingwood Secondary College)
Cromwell Street, Collingwood

14 May
Australian Laws
Neighbourhood Justice Centre
241 Wellington Street, Collingwood

21 May
Finances & Budgeting
AMES Collingwood (Collingwood Secondary College)
Cromwell Street, Collingwood

28 May
Child & Family Safety
Royal Children’s Hospital
Ella Latham Meeting Room
1st Floor, Flemington Road
Parkville

4 June
Understanding Australian Government
AMES Collingwood (Collingwood Secondary College)
Cromwell Street, Collingwood

This is a project of the New Hope Migrant and Refugee Centre working in partnership with:

· AMES Collingwood
· City of Yarra
· Ecumenical Migration Centre
· Fitzroy Legal Centre
· Neighbourhood Justice Centre
· North Yarra Community Health Centre
· Royal Children’s Hospital
· Australian Lebanese Welfare Association

Colette Bacash Chrisoula Kanaris Elleni Beshe
9510 5877 9376 5244 9416 0044

BRIEFING PAPER ON TRAINING PATHWAYS FOR SETTLEMENT WORKERS

2008-02-18T12:39:00.002+11:00

Dear All,

The attached paper has been prepared in the context of the release of the second draft of the revised National Community Services Training Package which, for the first time, contains units specifically designed for those working in the settlement sector.
It is intended to explain the relevance of the additions to the Training Package and encourage those working in this sector to become involved in the national consultations the Community Services and Health Industry Skills Council will be running in February-March (see pages
24-25 for a list of dates, locations and participation details).
It would be great if you could use your networks to alert people to the consultation process and encourage them to either respond in writing (by 31st March) or participate in the industry consultations.

To help you to do this, I have attached:
* an updated version of the briefing paper we developed last year:

http://docs.google.com/Doc?id=dfxrms2t_26hn9bj5c3
-
this one incorporating the developments since then;
* a stand alone version of the ISC consultation schedule:
http://docs.google.com/Doc?id=dfxrms2t_26dk49tpfh

* the two new units relating to working with forced migrants:
http://docs.google.com/Doc?id=dfxrms2t_32grjfcsdv
http://docs.google.com/Doc?id=dfxrms2t_30z59jrxgk

Regards,
Ramesh
Ramesh Kumar M
Manager, Settlement Services
AMES,
255 William Street
Melbourne 3000
Phone: 9926 4604
Mobile: 0409 354 935
Fax: 9670 8573
www.ames.net.au

Fitzroy Learning Network - Refugee Support and Volunteer Coordinator

2008-02-18T12:36:00.001+11:00

The Fitzroy Learning Network is a community based neighbourhood house that welcomes people from diverse educational, cultural and social backgrounds. We 'open doors to our community' by providing adult education programmes, youth programmes and a refugee support service.
We have a large active volunteer programme which supports our services.
We require an experienced full time coordinator to provide refugee support services and to manage the Network's volunteer programme. Good knowledge of community support services is essential, along with a degree in social work or community development.

For a position description and further information on the Fitzroy Learning Network, visit www.fitzroylearningnetwork.org.au or contact the Executive Officer on 9417 2897 or colleen@fitzroylearningnetwork.org.au.

Applications addressing the selection criteria outlined in the position description should be emailed or posted by 5.00 pm, 3 March 2008 to:

The Executive Officer, Fitzroy Learning Network, 198 Napier Street, Fitzroy 3065, colleen@fitzroylearningnetwork.org.au

2008-02-16T17:31:00.003+11:00

Researchers for Asylum Seekers (ras.unimelb.edu.au) are co-sponsoring a free public lecture, at the University of Melbourne, Friday March 14, 2008.

Who are RAS?

The Researchers for Asylum Seekers (RAS) group is a voluntary and non-profit group concerned about the current treatment of asylum seekers in Australia. Officially affiliated within the School of Behavioural Science, University of Melbourne, RAS aims to raise awareness of the plight of asylum seekers through forums, conferences, research and the distribution of information on asylum seeker issues.

Lecture details

Title: Culture and Conflict: Cultures of War, Cultures of Peace
Speaker: Professor Anthony Marsella
Date: Friday 14 March 2008
Time: 2.15pm to 4pm
Venue: Sunderland Theatre, Medical Building, University of Melbourne

This public lecture is FREE!

Please RSVP to Sharon Fong, at the University of Melbourne, phone (03) 8344 6376.

About the Speaker

Anthony J. Marsella, Ph.D., D.H.C., is Emeritus Professor of Psychology at the University of Hawaii. Dr. Marsella has published 14 edited books and more than 190 book chapters, journal articles, and technical reports in the areas of cultural and international psychology and psychopathology. He received the International Advancement of Psychology Award from the American Psychological Association (APA) in 1998, the International Psychologist of the Year Award from the International Division of APA in 2004, And the Asian-American Psychological Association Presidentâ€™s Award for lifetime contributions to Asian-American Psychology in 2004. In 1999, he was awarded an honorary doctorate from the University of Copenhagen (Doctoris Honoris Causas) for his contributions to international peace and understanding. Today, Dr. Marsella serves as President of thePsychologists for Social Responsibility, an organization committed to peace through social justice.

In this lecture

Dr. Marsella will explore the relations between culture and conflict that emerge when parties with differing constructions of reality come into contention regarding the distribution of power, control, and influence, and the competition for identities, roles, and economic, political, and religious needs. While differences in the construction of reality do not necessarily mean conflict, and while conflict does not necessarily lead to violence, differences in the construction of reality that are codified and asserted in unassailable belief systems and group policies often elicits and sustains violence and war. Building on this framework, and adding to it the influences of history, cultural ethoses, and national myths, the presentation then explores the forces involved in creating and supporting cultures of war, and the forces that are necessary for creating and supporting cultures of peace.

YSF News for February

2008-02-15T12:14:00.004+11:00

Yarra Settlement Forum Planning Day Notes and

February Agenda

Agenda:

http://docs.google.com/Doc?id=dfxrms2t_242vrkr97c

Planning Day Notes:

http://docs.google.com/Doc?id=dfxrms2t_23hn38x5gw

Please advise of any additions to the aganda or comments to the planning day notes by posting to the comments section below.

See you all at the Forum...

Maggie

Refugee Council of Australia Bulletin

2008-02-14T13:41:00.001+11:00

Click on link to go to document http://docs.google.com/Doc?id=dfxrms2t_20jbmwnzgs

2008-02-05T10:34:00.000+11:00

African Women's Group

Term 1

2008

This is a program for African women and their children within the City of Yarra.
While the women’s program is running there will be free activities for the children

The program aims to:
Reduce isolation by providing links into the local community and access to services such as North Yarra Community Health & City of Yarra and Family Services, Neighbourhood House, Fitzroy Learning Network;
Provide information sessions with guest speakers on health & nutrition, sexual health, asthma, outings and a BBQ;
Provide structured play, art and music activities for the children

Venue: Yarra Youth Centre
156 Napier Street, Fitzroy

When: Tuesday from 12.30pm till 2.30pm
Starting from 5 February till 18 March 2008

For further information and bookings, please call

Robyn Fletcher 9411 4333
Hong Vo 9205 5484

This is a joint project run by North Yarra Community Health and City of Yarra.

Community Futures Project - Training in Cross-cultural Communication

2008-01-23T13:29:00.000+11:00

The emphasis of this training program will be to develop the cultural awareness required for effective communication and cooperation with persons of diverse cultures, and the application of specialist workplace communication techniques to build and maintain strong relationships with colleagues and clients, based on respect and trust.

First training course will start 02 Feb 08 and run for five Saturdays. Participants will be paid a small fee to provide feedback on the course.

NMIT will design and deliver the course. They have an impressive understanding of the scope of the training and its potential for further study and employment pathways. Barbara Reeckman will train the first course.

We are now recruiting for four courses to be run Mar-Apr, Jun-July, Aug-Sept, Oct-Nov. Participants will need to attend 35 hours of class, plus a 20 hour community placement. Please let me know if you are interested to have trainees working on cross-cultural communication within your organization, and certainly pass on this info to potential participants. Students will be expected to have good spoken English, with less emphasis placed on literacy skills.

Training Program Outline
Program content will be accredited against two units from the Community Services Training Package with an integrated delivery. Program participants who successfully complete the program will achieve the competency (and a Statement of Attainment) in CHCCS405A Work effectively with culturally diverse clients and co-workers, and will cover elements from CHCCOM3C Utilise specialist communication skills to build strong relationships.

Further Study Opportunities
Program participants who wish to pursue further study may receive credit in related courses including:
Certificate III in Children's Services
Certificate IV in Alcohol and Other Drugs Work
Certificate IV in Disability Work
Certificate IV in Mental Health Work (Non-clinical)
Certificate IV in Youth Work
Certificate IV in Youth Work (Juvenile Justice)
Certificate IV in Community Services (Lifestyle and Leisure)
Certificate IV in Community Services (Protective Care)
Diploma of Out of School Hours Care

Training: Saturdays, possibly one course to run in the evening, one during the week, depending on availability of trainers
Time: 9am to 4pm for five weeks
Location: Neighbourhood Justice Centre, 241 Wellington Street Collingwood.

Student Support
Childcare and lunch will be provided at Collingwood Neighborhood House.
For more information please phone Kerry Wise on 0447 338 033.

CHILL OUT

2008-01-23T12:43:00.000+11:00

Yarra Youth Services and Yarra Leisure are pleased to announce the return of 'CHILL OUT'. 'Chill Out' is a leisure program for youth aged between 12 and 17 years old.

The aim of 'Chill out' is to introduce young people to Yarra Leisure, to encourage physical activity in young people and for participants to have a positive experience using the leisure centres and become familiar with the environment and behaviour expectations.

This year, Chill out will be held Wednesday afternoons from 4pm - 6pm at Fitzroy Swimming Pool, commencing 6th February for the duration of term 1. Activities will include use of the pool, group fitness space and smith's reserve (park next door). The best news is...that it's FREE.

For more information please contact Chrissy Billings or Kathy Peterson on 9205 5756 or email billingc@yarracity.vic.gov.au, petersok@yarracity.vic.gov.au

3ZZZ seeks Swahili speaking trainees

2008-01-21T17:46:00.000+11:00

Radio 3ZZZ 92.3 FM broadcasts across Melbourne every day, from its Fitzroy located studios.

Triple Zed, a not-for-profit community station, currently has programs in over 60 languages, including Dinka and several other languages widely spoken in Africa:

Arabic Youth – Friday 12-1pm
Sudanese-Arabic – Friday 12-1pm
Ghanaian – Monday 6-7am
Harari – Tuesday 3-4pm & Wednesday 9-10am
Oromo – Sunday 2-3 pm
Somali – Friday 10-11 pm

The radio station is seeking expressions of interest from contributors and potential trainees interested in being part of a new 3ZZZ Swahili program.

For more information contact Warren Crosbie via email at admin@3zzz.com.au or leave a message for Warren at 3ZZZ telephone 03 9415 1928.

3ZZZ expects to trial Swahili broadcasting Wednesday mornings, 7-8 am, March through to June, 2008. Training is provided free as part of the 'Starting Out' radio training project sponsored by the City of Yarra.

The 'Starting Out' project commenced in 2006, and specifically aims to train former refugees and others from so called 'emerging communities'.

Current trainees include Swahili speakers from the Democratic Republic of Congo and Kenya. Mr Kinyango, chair of the African Great Lakes Association in Melbourne, has also expressed interest in learning about how to make local community radio.

Several trainees from various parts of Africa have been broadcasting in English on 3ZZZ 92.3FM attempting to cover issues important to African-Australian women in Melbourne.

Participation in Starting Out radio training at 3ZZZ is encouraged from anyone with an interest in immigration, settlement, and the welfare former refugees living in Australia. Training is free.

Warren Crosbie
BA (media studies) RMIT

Information for Energy Hardship Training Program

2008-01-21T16:10:00.001+11:00

North Yarra Community Health is hosting this free Energy Hardship Training which is presented by Community Information Victoria Inc on behalf of Consumer Affairs Victoria.
It is relevant for all emergency relief workers or volunteers whose role brings them in contact with people having difficulties paying their gas or electricity bills. This is likely to become a growing issue in the future with energy costs predicted to increase significantly in response to carbon pricing initiatives.

It will be held on March 7th 2008 from 10am – 1pm at NYCH, Fitzroy Centre, 75 Brunswick St, Fitzroy.
Topics covered will include:
· The rights and responsibilities of customers and retailers
· Understanding energy bills and ways of making payment
· Assisting people who have payment difficulties
· Useful information about concessions, grants, loans, rebates, and other available support
· Disconnection
· Complaints and useful contacts

See Below

nnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnn

FREE Energy Hardship Training Program for Emergency Relief Community Workers and Volunteers

Presented by Community Information Victoria Inc (CIVic) on behalf of Consumer Affairs Victoria

Community agencies offering emergency relief services now have access to FREE information and training programs as part of the Government’s A Fairer Victoria policy and in response to the 2005 Inquiry into Financial Hardship of Energy Consumers.

As it is now mandatory for energy retailers to have hardship policies for their domestic customers in Victoria, Community Information Victoria Inc (CIVic), on behalf of Consumer Affairs Victoria, is conducting free training programs in metropolitan and regional Victoria between February and June 2008 for staff and volunteers who work with clients facing energy hardship.

This 3-hour training session is relevant for emergency relief workers whose role brings them in contact with people having difficulties paying their gas or electricity bills.

Topics covered include:

The rights and responsibilities of customers and retailers
Understanding energy bills and ways of making payment
Assisting people who have payment difficulties
Useful information about concessions, grants, loans, rebates, and other available support
Disconnection
Complaints and useful contacts

Participants in the training sessions will receive a practical workbook. A statement of participation will be issued to those attending training and a light lunch will be provided.

How to register

Registration is required and can be made by completing the attached registration form and sending to: CIVic, Suite 412, Level 4, 343 Little Collins St, Melbourne, 3000

Fax to: 03 96722099

Email: civic@civ.org.au one week prior to the relevant training session

For further information about the upcoming training session times log on to www.civ.org.au

Contacts: Helen Besley on 03 96722002, email helen@civ.org.au or

Robyn Hosking on 03 9672 2004, email robyn@civ.org.au

2008-01-17T12:50:00.000+11:00

Foundation House Training Modules

February to June 2008

Brunswick Venue : Foundation House, 6 Gardiner St, Brunswick

Noble Park Venue : Paddy O'Donaghue Centre, 18 –32 Buckley St, Noble Park

For more details and to register go to http://www.foundationhouse.com.au/professional.php and download the Training Calendar and Registration Form

1. PREREQUISITE COURSE: Introduction to Working with Refugees

Brunswick: Thursday February 21^st Noble Park: Friday April 18^th

Time: 9.30am - 4.30pm Cost: $132 Light lunch included

Suitable for anyone working with refugee survivors of torture and trauma, and a prerequisite for those wishing to do a specialist course

For more details and to register go to http://www.foundationhouse.com.au/professional.php and download the Training Calendar and Registration Form

2. Working within Your Refugee Community

Prerequisite: none

One day course at Noble Park

Friday 27^th June

9.30pm – 4.30pm $132 for organisations; some free places available for individuals. Light lunch included.

3. Course for 'Incidental' Counsellors: Skills for Working with Refugee Survivors

Prerequisite: Introduction or equivalent.

Two-day course at Brunswick

Thursdays 6^th and 13^th March

Time: 9.30am–4.30pm

Cost: $198 Light lunch included both days

Suitable for people who are currently working with refugees in settlement, youth work, housing, employment, welfare, health, community services, or education.

4. Course for Counsellors: Skills for Working with Refugee Survivors in Counselling Practice

Prerequisite: Introduction or equivalent

Two-day course at Noble Park

Fridays 9^th and 16^th May

Time: 9.30 – 4.30pm

Cost: $198 Light lunch included both days

Suitable for people who are currently working with refugee survivors in a counselling capacity including psychologists, social workers, counsellors, domestic violence and drug and alcohol workers.

For more details and to register

go to http://www.foundationhouse.com.au/professional.php and download the Training Calendar and Registration Form

2008-01-16T17:16:00.000+11:00

How to post to the Yarra Settlement Forum Blog:

Right click on the sign in link (top right hand corner) and click open in a new window.

Once you've logged into Blogger you'll see your Dashboard, showing your list of blogs. Click the green 'plus' icon to create a new post:

Next, you'll see the Create New Post page. Start by giving your post a title (optional), then enter the post itself:

When you're done, click the "Preview" link to make sure it's ready to go:

Once you're satisfied with your post, click the "Publish" button. This will publish your new post:

What is a blog?

2008-01-16T12:20:00.000+11:00

A 'Blog' is a web posting of your thoughts, comments or ideas, and in this case anything to do with settlement issues relevant to the Yarra Settlement Forum. You may post your comments, publish a picture, add a document or link to a website. This blog was created to enable the ease of communication between YSF members in a contained and easily accessible way.

Welcome To The New Yarra Settlement Forum Blogging Site!

2008-01-16T10:24:00.000+11:00