The NSW Government has provided $500,000 to the Ukrainian community of New South Wales to support those who have sought safe haven in the state, following the brutal Russian invasion of Ukraine.
NSW Minister for Multiculturalism Mark Coure said the funding had been allocated to the Australian Federation of Ukrainian Organisations (AFUO) to support its work in aiding the more than 1,600 Ukrainian displaced people who have arrived in NSW since Russia’s illegal invasion on 24 February.
“The AFUO has been a vital link between the community and government, providing critical support, information and advice to displaced persons,” Mr Coure said.
“The $500,000 will help AFUO continue this important work and ensure those arriving in NSW from Ukraine can receive the care they need.”
The funding will support Ukrainians in securing long-term accommodation, assisting with essential living costs, English-language support and supporting people to find employment.
Mr Coure added that the NSW Government had recently announced additional funding to help continue the NSW Service for the Treatment and Rehabilitation of Torture and Trauma Survivors (STARTTS) expanded Witness to War program.
“Ukrainians fleeing war with scars of trauma and torture deserve the opportunity to heal, and this is equally the case for Australian-Ukrainians experiencing vicarious trauma through violence against their relatives,” Mr Coure said.
“Extending this program will continue this service for those already here in NSW and any further Ukrainians who will come to NSW for refuge.
“The NSW Government continues to stand in solidarity with the people of Ukraine as they fight to defend and liberate their country from Putin and his illegal Russian occupation.”
Co-Chair of the Australian Federation of Ukrainian Organisations Kateryna Argyrou said she was extremely grateful for the NSW Government’s support, which has helped the community navigate many difficult issues since the first days of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
“First and foremost, the funds will go towards assisting the most vulnerable members of our community—displaced women and children who had no choice but to flee Russian missiles that are regularly targeting all major cities of Ukraine,” Ms Argyrou said.
“Our community in Sydney has been doing all it can to support Ukraine at this time. Many volunteers are stretched and exhausted. The $500,000 donation from the NSW Government will help fortify the current community support structures we have in place and help bridge any gaps.”
The funding support announcement adds to a number of initiatives and support from the NSW Government, including health and language support, and advocacy on behalf of the community to the Federal Government.
