A groundbreaking initiative has been launched by Centacare Employment and Training with the aim of supporting migrants and humanitarian entrants to integrate into the West Australian community.
The Connecting Up Program was launched last Wednesday 5 July with special guests, key stakeholders including Minister for Training, Water and Youth, the Honourable Simone McGurk MLA.
The free program is a collaborative effort between Centacare Employment and Training and the Western Australian Catholic Migrant and Refugee Office (WACMRO) and aims to empower participants by addressing their unique needs and challenges through individualised mentoring and practical guidance.
The event commenced with a heartfelt Welcome to Country address delivered by Brett Collard, setting the tone for an occasion promoting inclusivity, collaboration, and cultural understanding.
In launching the initiative, Centacare CEO Lee-Anne Phillips highlighted the program’s significance and expressed her gratitude to the partners, stakeholders, and supporters who had contributed to its conception.
Centacare’s Connecting Up Program Coordinator, Donna Stones, talked about Centacare’s commitment to empowering individuals and fostering a sense of belonging within the community.
In attending the launch, the Hon McGurk presented Centacare with a certificate from Lotterywest—
demonstrating its commitment to investing in initiatives that promote social cohesion, education, and integration.
By providing access to language training, vocational support, and cultural orientation, the program equips migrants and humanitarian entrants with the tools they need to build a solid foundation for their new lives in Australia.
One of the key objectives of the Connecting Up Program is to create a welcoming and inclusive environment where participants feel supported and encouraged to engage with the community actively.
By offering a range of services, such as assistance with employment, education, and social connections, the program helps individuals navigate the often-complex process of settling into a new country.
The launch event was an invaluable opportunity for stakeholders to gain firsthand insight into the program’s objectives, benefits, and alignment with Centacare’s broader mission.
It provided a platform for meaningful conversations, collaboration, and networking among attendees who share the goal of promoting diversity, social inclusion, and empowerment.
With the support of the Minister, Lotterywest, WACMRO, Red Cross, and the wider community, the Connecting Up Program has the potential to make a significant and lasting impact on the lives of migrants and humanitarian entrants, fostering a more inclusive and cohesive society in Western Australia.
For more information about the Connecting Up program or to register your interest, Click Here.