On the Frontline of Welcome

Helping Newcomers Thrive

Overview

1 in 4 Australians are born overseas, and over 300 languages are spoken at home. Optimising the benefits of migration and cultural diversity requires us to adapt and implement new ways of working that are inclusive and meet the changing needs of customers and communities. This course builds understanding of migration, cultural diversity, and settlement experiences, equipping participants with knowledge of the barriers that newcomers face, the assets they bring, and the practical steps organisations can take to improve their engagement, increase access and inclusion, and enhance participation.

Who should attend

Community-focussed professionals in the government and non-government sectors who want to learn more about the diverse communities they serve. This role is especially relevant for frontline services that may come into contact with newcomers soon after arrival (e.g. libraries, employment, youth, and other community services)

Learning Outcomes

  • Understand the impact of migration at an individual and community level

  • Use data to understand your community’s migration trends and diversity profile

  • Understand the impact of cultural and linguistic diversity on communication and engagement

  • Identify factors that may impact access to services and participation in community life

  • Identify strategies that enhance cultural inclusion, equity, active citizenship, and empowerment

Meet your Facilitator

Our course delivery is led by Founder and Principal, Sarah Janali. Sarah combines theory and practice to create fun, engaging learning experiences, practical tools, and frameworks. She has a reputation for fostering environments that enable practitioners to learn from each other.

Sarah has played a pivotal role in developing, delivering, and managing community development strategies, programs, and projects across various portfolio areas. Her work spans the NFP sector, where she worked with newly arrived refugees and multicultural communities, and 15 years in local government.

As a Churchill Fellow, Sarah brings international insights from her research on strategies that promote the participation and inclusion of newcomers. Sarah's approach to coaching, training, facilitation, and strategic support helps organisations work more effectively with stakeholders and create community-led solutions to complex challenges.