The Australian Capital Territory (ACT) has become a part of the Safe Haven Enterprise Visa (SHEV) Scheme, meaning refugees in Canberra will have greater access to services and employment.
The scheme is designed to encourage refugees to find work or pursuing education in regional areas of Australia.
ACT Minister for Multicultural Affairs Yvette Barry said it would provide greater certainty for refugees living in Canberra.
“For refugees already living in the ACT – some for a number of years – the absence of a SHEV zone meant that they would be forced to move interstate, away from their already established support networks, friends and neighbourhoods where they are valued members of our community.
“The SHEV scheme would give hope and certainty to these people who make Canberra their home and who would otherwise face an uncertain future.
“We are currently working with the business and community sectors as well as across government to examine how refugees can be better supported to find employment. We are also working on a community of practice that will bring together relevant organisations to examine best practice in supporting refugees.”
