Besides all the positive work ASRC does there is still a lot that needs to be done for people seeking asylum or protection in Australia. In my program (VET) the key challenges are the lack of recognition of prior studies overseas, as many our members have higher studies or good qualifications form their country of origin but unfortunately these are not recognised in Australia. The Other key challenge we face is that our members can’t study any course which requires apprenticeships as most of our member would like to get vocational qualification such as (auto mechanic, plumber or electrician) but because they can’t get apprenticeships so they are not eligible for those courses. Some of our members struggle financially as well as they are eligible for social benefits but sometimes it’s enough because they have pay some tuition fee towards their courses as well and depending on their visa classes they might not be eligible for social benefits which make it very hard to them to study.
In conclusion working for me with ASRC was great learning experience and somehow changed my views of issues related to asylum seekers and refuges living in Australia. As every person has a story and a journey that they have come through and it’s remarkably brilliant to observe the resilience of these people and contributions they are making to their families and communities