Northern Rivers leads the way in refugee support
The theme for this year’s Refugee Week across Australia is “Finding Freedom – In Diversity.” In the Northern Rivers, the local community is proving that this isn’t just a slogan—it’s a lived commitment.
Since August 2022, Northern Rivers for Refugees (NRFR), with the help of more than 200 volunteers, has welcomed 42 refugees from Syria and Venezuela to the Ballina, Byron, and Tweed shires. This remarkable effort reflects a deep and ongoing regional tradition of standing up for the rights of displaced people.
A long tradition of advocacy
Supporting refugees and asylum seekers is not new to this area. For years, passionate community groups in towns like Uki, Federal, and Ballina have written thousands of letters to politicians, lobbying for compassion and justice. They’ve raised tens of thousands of dollars to provide essentials for asylum seekers—whether in offshore detention or fleeing persecution abroad, particularly following the fall of Afghanistan.
These grassroots efforts remind us all: seeking asylum is a human right, and being a refugee is never a choice—it’s a consequence of war, oppression, and persecution.
A new model of community-led resettlement
In August 2022, Australia launched the CRISP program (Community Refugee Integration and Settlement Pilot), inspired by a successful Canadian model. CRISP requires a community group to take full responsibility for a refugee family for at least 12 months—covering housing, employment, schooling, driving lessons, medical care, and navigating services like Centrelink.
In the Northern Rivers, NRFR (formerly Ballina Region for Refugees) stepped up in a big way. A non-denominational and bipartisan organisation, NRFR has supported the formation of nine Community Support Groups (CSGs). These groups have resettled 42 individuals across the region, helping them rebuild their lives.
Over 500 supporters now subscribe to NRFR’s bi-monthly newsletter, connecting with stories that show just how powerful grassroots action can be.
The true cost—and value—of welcome
While CRISP became a permanent refugee pathway in February 2025, government funding only covers flights and basic entitlements. The rest—rent, transport, medical needs, and day-to-day living expenses—is covered by the community.
NRFR estimates it costs about $20,000 per family per year, primarily due to high rental prices, lack of public transport, and the need for cars and licenses. As a registered charity with tax-deductible status, NRFR raises funds to support these needs—allowing the CSGs to focus on providing hands-on support to their assigned families.
Over the past five years, NRFR has raised $366,000, ensuring every dollar goes directly toward refugee resettlement.
Real lives, real impact
The UNHCR estimates there are over 43.4 million refugees worldwide. Australia takes in around 20,000 annually. While NRFR’s 42 may seem like a drop in the ocean, the local impact is profound.
Every adult in the program is now working or studying English—often both. The children, especially the girls, have flourished in school, despite beginning with little to no English. Friendships have blossomed. Teachers, healthcare professionals, and neighbours have all rallied to make these new families feel truly welcome.
Even government departments, often viewed as impersonal, have joined in. A special thanks goes to Centrelink teams in Ballina, Brunswick Heads, and Tweed Heads for their compassion and commitment.
Join the movement
The arrival of 42 refugees has transformed not just their lives—but also those of their supporters. The community is stronger, more compassionate, and enriched by diversity.
Want to hear more?
- Byron Bay Library – Monday, 16 June, at 10:30am
- Tweed Library – Thursday, 19 June, at 10:30am
Come along to learn how a small group of committed people can make a lasting difference.
