Economic Pathways to Refugee Integration Program

Overview of The Economic Pathways to Refugee Integration Program:  

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Economic participation has been shown to be critical for refugees and humanitarian entrants to integrate in Australia.  

The Economic Pathways to Refugee Integration Program (EPRI) is a new initiative by the Australian Government Department of Home Affairs which seeks to develop a work program that addresses work experience, skills and language development opportunities that would equip refugees and humanitarian entrants improve their prospects to seek employment and settlement in Australia.  

The St Vincent de Paul Society NSW is proud to be taking part in this program.  

Overview of the St Vincent de Paul Society NSW Economic Pathways to Refugee Integration Program: 

St Vincent de Paul Society NSW Economic Pathways to Refugee Integration Program will seek to increase the rate of employment for refugees and humanitarian entrants with lower skill levels and low English language.  

The program will offer the following to participants:  

1. Participation in and completion of relevant fee-free Cert II & III courses within the field of retail and logistics, 
2. Participation in and completion of fee-free English Language courses, facilitated by relevant Registered Training Organisations, 
3. Volunteer placement and work experience across the 12 Vinnies NSW Retail Shops in the South Western Sydney area and the Auburn Distribution Centre, and  
4. Connection with potential Recruitment Agencies. 

Eligibility:

Individuals who have arrived in Australia as part of the Refugee or Humanitarian program are eligible to participate in this program.

Commitment:

• 3 – 6 month (fee-free) English language, Cert II & III retail and logistics courses, and
• Up to 16 hours work experience per week

 The courses and work experience will take place in South West Sydney and surrounding areas.