CRISP Step by Step
The Community Supporter Group Journey
Understand more about the CRISP and hear from those with first hand experience of the program.
This is where your welcome journey begins. Learn about the CRISP and how to take the next steps to get involved in the program and be a part of Australia's growing community sponsorship movement.
STEPS TO COMPLETE IN PHASE 1:
- Attend a CRISP Information Session (or select the option to watch a pre-recorded info session if no available dates work)
- Submit your Group’s Intention to Welcome
This phase is about building a strong, well-prepared group.
You’ll complete background checks, start fundraising and set up a group bank account, complete training and begin settlement planning.
At the end of this phase, you will work with CRSA to be matched with a refugee household
STEPS TO COMPLETE IN PHASE 2:
- Submit your Individual Application including Background Checks.
- Sign up to the CRSA Community Hub
- Complete online training modules
- Complete online workshop
- Open a group bank account
- Fundraise a minimum of 50% of your group’s budget
- Complete your group’s Settlement Plan
Getting ready for the arrival of the newcomer household your group has been matched with.
After your group is matched with a refugee household the focus shifts to practical preparation.
You’ll organise accommodation, prepare your Welcome Pack, and take key steps outlined in the Settlement Guide. This may also include your first contact with the household and a pre-arrival call with your Community Liaison Officer.
STEPS TO COMPLETE IN PHASE 3:
- Continue fundraising
- Talk to your community
- Update your settlement plan
- Secure on arrival accommodation for the household
- Prepare your Welcome Pack
This is the heart of the program – supporting a household through their first year
Over the 12-month period your group supports the household to settle into life in Australia. You’ll stay connected with CRSA through regular check-ins with your Community Liaison Officer, and continue accessing training, resources, and peer support through the Community Hub.
STEPS TO COMPLETE IN PHASE 4:
- Welcome the household at the airport
- Assist with essential registrations and enrolments
- Work with the household to set goals and expectations
- Provide ongoing settlement support
- Participate in check ins with your CRSA Community Liaison Officer
- Engage in peer support and learning activities
Completing the program and looking ahead
As the formal support period comes to an end, CRSA provides guidance to help you close out your formal commitments to the household and reflect on your experience. Many groups stay connected with the newcomers they welcomed and stay involved in the movement by sharing their story, welcoming others or supporting other groups involved in this work.
STEPS TO COMPLETE IN PHASE 5:
- Work with the household to plan what’s next
- Pause and reflect on your experience and learnings
- Share your experience with others
- Complete your group’s statement regarding use of funds