Each year, Yarra City Council celebrates the contributions and achievements that refugees and newly arrived migrants make to our community. 

With more than 29% of Yarra residents born overseas, we welcome people seeking asylum and other newly arrived migrants and recognise the incredible strength and resilience of these communities. 

Yarra City Council Mayor Claudia Nguyen says Yarra City Council has a long and proud commitment to refugees and newly arrived migrants.  

“Yarra was recognised as a Refugee Welcome Zone since 2002 when we committed to uphold the rights of refugees, show compassion to refugees and enhance the cultural and religious diversity of our community,” she said.  

“I have an extended family of refugees who came to Australia after fleeing the Vietnam War, so I have some understanding of the difficulties faced by many refugee people in our community, ” she said.   

“We must advocate for the rights of refugees and people seeking asylum to be free from hardship and empower them with opportunities to have a fulfilling life” she said. 

As part of Refugee Week, our neighbourhood houses and local community organisations will be hosting a series of free events. All are welcome to attend.

North Richmond Community Health Afternoon Tea 
Monday 19 June 
from 2pm to 3.30pm 
North Richmond Community Hub, 110 Elizabeth Street, Richmond 

This event includes finger food, speeches and films reflecting the refugee experience.

Belgium Avenue Neighbourhood House Twilight Market   
Tuesday 20 June  
From 3.30pm to 5.30pm  
The Factory, 19 Belgium Avenue, Richmond 

Belgium Avenue Neighbourhood House’s Twilight Market will include free art activities, live music, multicultural food and fresh produce.

Carlton Neighbourhood Learning Centre Refugee Week celebration 
Wednesday 21 June 
From 11am to 12 noon 
Carlton Neighbourhood House, 20 Princes Street, Carlton North 

Join Carlton Neighbourhood Learning Centre for a screening of Rosemary’s Way – an inspirational movie about charismatic changemaker, Rosemary Kariuki, who is on a mission to empower migrant women. Community members are also invited to contribute to a collaborative art display sharing ideas for freedom and hope. Morning tea will be provided.  

North Richmond Community Health Banner Launch 
Thursday 22 June 
from 10am to 11am  
North Richmond Community Health, 23 Lennox Street, Richmond  

Launching North Richmond Community Health’s Welcome to Refugees and Asylum Seeker banners, with finger food and speeches.  

Let’s talk about HIV/AIDS 
Monday 27 June  
from 10am to 1pm 
North Richmond Community Health, 23 Lennox Street, Richmond  

A talk presented by Dr. Tafireyi Marukutira followed by question time and lunch.