Welcome Zone - Refugees and People Seeking Asylum

The City of Maribyrnong is a Refugee Welcome Zone, reflecting our commitment to welcoming refugees, protecting human rights, and fostering cultural and religious diversity. We are committed to making Maribyrnong a welcoming and inclusive place for all.

While Council does not deliver settlement services, we play an important role in ensuring our programs — including sport and recreation, libraries, youth services, and family services — are welcoming and inclusive of people from refugee backgrounds, those seeking asylum, individuals on humanitarian visas, and others who have migrated to Australia.

Local Government Mayoral and Councillor Taskforce Supporting People Seeking Asylum

Council is a proud member of the Local Government Mayoral and Councillor Taskforce Supporting People Seeking Asylum. Together with over 40 councils across Australia, the Taskforce advocates for the rights of refugees and people seeking asylum and promote a culture of welcome that recognises their strengths and contributions to our community.

Back Your Neighbour

Council has joined the Back Your Neighbour campaign calling on the Australian Government to provide stability and safety to people seeking asylum.

As a member of the Taskforce, Council is committed to raising awareness of the issues affecting refugees and people seeking asylum, advocating for their rights, as well as creating a culture of welcome and celebrating positive contributions made by refugees to the community.

Asylum seekers are highly vulnerable individuals and families living in a constant state of uncertainty and denied access to critical support services such as Centrelink, Medicare, public housing, education, mental health and food.

The Back Your Neighbour Campaign is a coalition of Australian local governments, community groups, welfare organisations and individual Australians who give voice to some of the most vulnerable members of our community.

The Taskforce is calling on the Federal Government to:

  1. Replace the existing system with a single Refugee Status Determination process and an independent, timely and fair merits review.
  2. Replace Temporary Protection Visas with a permanent humanitarian visa.
  3. Increase funding to urgently clear the backlog of asylum applications and appeals.
  4. Provide access to Centrelink, Medicare, and other support services for applicants.

To find out more, including how you can support the campaign, visit the Back Your Neighbour website.

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