Employment and Education Support
Creating Livelihoods for Refugees and Asylum Seekers
Refugees and asylum seekers face significant challenges when arriving in Australia, from meeting basic needs to finding meaningful employment. MercyCare’s Employment Pathways Support programs help participants identify their skills, explore work opportunities, and connect with mentors to navigate the Australian workplace.
Why Refugees and Asylum Seekers Need Support
Some refugees and asylum seekers may struggle to secure employment despite being highly skilled, due to:
- Unrecognised overseas qualifications
- Limited knowledge of Australian workplace norms
- Lack of local work history or references
- Limited professional networks
- Low confidence in job applications, interviews, and resumes
Our Employment Support Programs
How We Help
MercyCare provides:
- Skill-building workshops and one-on-one guidance
- Mentorship to navigate the Australian workplace
- Support with recognising overseas qualifications (in partnership with the City of Stirling’s Kaleidoscope program)
Overcoming Employment Barriers
We help participants tackle challenges such as:
- Understanding Australian workplace norms
- Building local work experience and networks
- Improving confidence in resumes, cover letters, and interviews
Microenterprise Pathways
For participants interested in starting their own business, our microenterprise program offers:
- Exposure to small enterprises such as home industries, FareGo food trucks, and Good Habits gift soaps
- Free or low-cost workshops in business and marketing through partners like BOSS
- Practical hospitality experience with CARAD
Weave to Thrive
Weave to Thrive is a creative program supporting refugees and asylum seekers to build skills, confidence, and connections through textile-based projects. Participants explore weaving, crafting, and collaborative art activities, while developing personal and professional skills that support their employment and social integration.
Learn more about the program here.
Partner Organisations
We work with multiple community organisations to provide comprehensive support, including:
- CARAD
- Career Life Transitions
- BOSS Centre
- City Rotary Club
- Hyatt Regency Hotel
- Mirrabooka Square
- New Norcia Monastery
- Kaleidoscope (City of Stirling)
How Employers Can Get Involved
Benefits of Employing Refugees and Asylum Seekers
Employers offering work placements or paid roles help:
- Demonstrate commitment to workplace diversity
- Develop a better understanding of refugee experiences
- Build meaningful relationships between staff and job seekers
Employer Resources
Funding and Partnerships
- Fully funded by MercyCare to address gaps for asylum seekers without income
- Part of the Unity Employment Network, connecting WA employers with refugee, asylum seeker, and new migrant jobseekers
Contact Us
Phone: 08 6298 9888
Email: mirrabookareception@mercycare.com.au
Unity Employment Network inquiries: unityemployment@mercycare.com.au
