New term for Government’s settlement advisory council
The Commonwealth Government today reaffirmed its commitment to settlement services by announcing the members of the newly named Settlement Services Advisory Council.
Minister for Social Services, Christian Porter, said the council chaired by Paris Aristotle, would focus on improving migrant and refugee integration into Australian society and helping them get the skills they need for a job.
“Migrants and refugees face particular challenges putting them at a social and economic disadvantage, which in turn can increase the risk of social isolation and disengagement,” Mr Porter said.
“The Settlement Services Advisory Council is focussing on helping these groups as they look to build a positive future for themselves in Australia, particularly as we prepare to welcome an additional 12,000 refugees through the Syrian humanitarian intake.”
Senator Fierravanti-Wells said the Council would formally meet several times a year and also participate in consultations and other stakeholder engagement.
“In particular, we will work with the council to focus on innovative ways to maximise the participation of migrants and humanitarian entrants through improved English language, employment and education outcomes,” Senator Fierravanti-Wells said.
“I look forward to their expert advice to guide policy and programme innovation and help drive an agenda of participation.”
The Council is also expected to liaise closely with the Australian Multicultural Council as part of its work.
The Council members are:
- Mr Paris Aristotle AM, Chair
- Ms Carmel Guerra
- Ms Gail Ker OAM
- Ms Carmen Garcia
- Mr Abeselom Nega
- Dr Mohammed Taha Alsalami AM
- Dr Eman Sharobeem
- Ms Melissa Monteiro
- Ms Maha Abdo
- Ms Catherine Scarth
The term of the Council goes through to December 2017.
Visit the DSS website for more information on the Settlement Services Advisory Council.