Free training for asylum seekers and refugees

NSW Government

Asylum seekers will be supported with more opportunities to get skilled and find jobs thanks to a new fee-free training program funded by the NSW Government.

The NSW Government has invested $11 million in the Asylum Seeker Employment Skills Support program, which will help upskill asylum seekers by offering English classes, driving lessons, computer literacy courses and even certificates in business.

Minister for Skills and Training Alister Henskens said the new program is a game-changer for asylum seekers struggling to gain employment.

“We know that refugees and asylum seekers want to be self-sufficient through work, but sometimes they are unable to because they don’t have the skills or qualifications,” Mr Henskens said.

“This new program will break down barriers and provide practical support to help asylum seekers get a job and secure a brighter future for them and their families.”

The program joins the Refugee Employment Support Program, which has been extended to December 2023 thanks to an additional $6.3 million investment by the NSW Government.

Minister for Multiculturalism Mark Coure said both of these programs go to the very core of the NSW Government’s desire to provide opportunities for everyone across the state to succeed.

“These programs are about investing in our state’s greatest asset – its people. People come to NSW to create a better life and we want to help them make that a reality,” Mr Coure said.

“This investment goes beyond helping refugees and asylum seekers – it supports local businesses and our economy as well.

“Once again, the NSW Government is stepping up and making sure no one is left behind, especially refugees and asylum seekers that want to build a brighter future here in our great state.”

Learn more about training opportunities for refugees and asylum seekers

/Public Release. View in full here.