The Victorian Refugee Health Network recognises the recent atrocities that have occurred in Israel and that continue to occur within the Occupied Territories of Palestine including Gaza and the West Bank. These events are inflicting enduring and devastating humanitarian consequences including loss of life and widespread trauma.
The Victorian Refugee Health Network recognises the recent atrocities that have occurred in Israel and that continue to occur within the Occupied Territories of Palestine including Gaza and the West Bank. These events are inflicting enduring and devastating humanitarian consequences including loss of life and widespread trauma.
As the UN Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres, has stated on 6th December, the constant bombardment by Israel’s Defence Forces in Gaza is having devastating impacts including the significant number of civilian casualties and has rendered humanitarian assistance impossible. The Network reiterates that in any conflict, under International Human Rights Law, the protection of civilians is paramount.
The Australian Commonwealth government has recently announced that 860 Palestinians and approximately 1800 Israeli’s have been granted ‘temporary visas’ to Australia. The Victorian Refugee Health Network have been coordinating a meeting with the refugee, community and health sector to help coordinate services and identify and respond to health issues and emerging needs for this group of arrivals in Victoria.
In Victoria, there are many communities who are understandably distressed by these international events. Please find below some resources that are available that may be suitable during this time:
Foundation House Additional Supports:
Foundation House has a number of additional services that are available for people who are currently impacted by the situation. Please see below a list of the services that are currently being offered:
- Foundation House can provide psychoeducation sessions at any events or sessions happening in the community.
- Foundation House can provide debriefing and/or supervision
session for organisations and/or groups of health care professionals who are impacted by the situation and require support. - Please reach out to Foundation House’s Middle East Crisis Response Team for more information.
- Community Project Worker: Gemma Tarpey-Brown
- Community Project Worker: Mariam Mgoter
If you, your communities or other organisations have any further queries or would like to share more resources related to health for recent arrivals, please contact refugeehealth@foundationhouse.org.au
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