The Armidale Refugee Health Team has won ‘Best Project’ at the 2024 NSW Humanitarian Awards for their efforts in establishing a ground-breaking program which has set the standard for refugee health care and integration.
These prestigious awards, presented on 1 July 2024, recognise individuals and organisations making exceptional contributions to the lives of refugees and asylum seekers in New South Wales.
Her Excellency the Honourable Margaret Beazley AC KC, Governor of New South Wales, expressed her honour in hosting the ceremony and officially presenting the awards at Government House.
“The wonderful individuals and organisations recognised by these Awards exemplify the best of who we are as a community: compassionate, inclusive, and giving unwavering support for refugees who settle in NSW.”
Recognised as a pioneering model in regional refugee resettlement, the award recognised the nurse-led, multidisciplinary Armidale Refugee Health Team for transforming healthcare access for refugees in Armidale, marking it as Australia’s first new regional refugee settlement site in over 15 years.
The team’s innovative approach integrates nursing, social work, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and speech pathology to provide comprehensive and culturally sensitive healthcare. Their work has not only addressed immediate health needs but has also facilitated broader social integration for refugees, including supporting access to the NDIS and educational integration for children.
Ashley Young, who leads the team as the Service Manager for Multicultural and Refugee Health, says they are incredibly proud, and the dedication and hard work of the team is truly inspiring.
“As the front line in regional refugee settlement, they’ve championed the complex health needs of this community, overcoming challenges and transforming how our health system supports them.”
“Their tireless efforts are key to building a thriving new community in Armidale, and a powerful testament to the strength that comes from collaboration.”
The Armidale Refugee Health Team’s commitment extends beyond routine medical care, as they ensure that refugees are fully included in the community, thereby enhancing both individual lives and the regional community as a whole. The award citation says their groundbreaking efforts have set a standard for refugee health care and integration, recommended for future regional resettlement initiatives.
The extraordinary commitment of team members has made a profound impact, ensuring that refugees are not only surviving but thriving in their new environment. Their dedication to health and community integration exemplifies the profound impact that thoughtful healthcare can have on the lives of refugees.
Paul Power, CEO of the Refugee Council of Australia, highlighted the shared responsibility in welcoming refugees.
“The NSW Humanitarian Awards acknowledge the crucial role everyone plays in supporting refugees,” Mr. Power stated. “From various sectors like business, media, education, legal, and government – these awards celebrate exceptional efforts that empower newcomers to flourish in their new homes.”
Top image: Nurse Gretel Knight accepting the NSW Humanitarian award from Governor Margaret Beazley on behalf of the Armidale Refugee Health Team. (Supplied)
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