Entrepreneurship #
Refugee entrepreneurs make a significant contribution to Australia’s economy. CSGs can support newcomers by connecting them with trusted business resources while respecting their own goals and decisions.
At a glance #
- Many refugees choose to start their own businesses in Australia.
- Specialist organisations provide business mentoring and financial support.
- Employment and business decisions should always remain with the Refugee Household.
Starting a business #
Many refugees and humanitarian entrants become successful business owners in Australia.
Government data shows that almost 30% of refugees start a small business within 10 years of arriving in Australia. For newcomers interested in entrepreneurship, specialist organisations can provide guidance, mentoring and financial support.
Thrive Refugee Enterprises offers business loans and mentoring for refugees who wish to establish a small business.
Thrive Refugee Enterprises:
https://thriverefugeeenterprise.org.au/about-us
Employment summary checklist #
EMPLOYMENT Checklist #
- Do the newcomers have a resume that meets Australian standards?
https://www.workforceaustralia.gov.au/individuals/coaching/job-applications/resumes#start-with-a-resume-template - Do they know how to search for jobs online?
- Do they know how to search for volunteering opportunities?
https://www.volunteer.com.au/ - Do they know how to report income to Services Australia?
https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/mutual-obligation-requirements - Do they know where to find information about their workplace rights?
https://www.fwc.gov.au/about-us/information-your-language - Do they know how to access information about tax, superannuation and managing money?
https://moneysmart.gov.au/publications-and-resources/money-tips-in-other-languages
Agency #
CSGs are encouraged to provide accurate information about employment, workplace rights and available supports, but the decisions about when to work, what work to pursue and whether to start a business belong to the Refugee Household.
Managing Expectations and Assumptions #
Each Refugee Household will make its own decisions about employment and career pathways. Those decisions may differ from what the CSG expected or hoped for. Supporting newcomers means respecting their choices and providing information that helps them make informed decisions.
“Sustainable employment is built on informed choices, personal goals and the confidence to pursue them.”
