MELBOURNE PROGRAM APPLICATIONS ARE NOW OPEN

In 2025 the ASRC will work with partners to train leaders. In particular, the program seeks to develop emerging leaders by developing their skills across the following areas:

• Advocacy and campaigning, organising and mobilising 
• Media, public speaking and messaging
• Social media and digital communication
• Facilitation and event management
• Leadership skills to train members in their own communities

In each state, expert trainers in writing, journalism, storytelling, digital media, advocacy and campaigning, organising and mobilising, will support and share their knowledge and experience with course participants.

At the completion of the intensive program, participants in each state will be supported to take part in public talks, media activities and advocacy events, providing opportunities to put their new skills into practice. Participants will also be resourced to train others in their communities and upon graduation will be connected to relevant networks across Australia.

The program will amplify the voices of people with lived experience, supporting participants to build the confidence and skills necessary to effectively influence the narrative within the media and Australian communities regarding refugees and people seeking asylum.

• Over 6 consecutive Saturdays, participants will receive training in a range of public speaking, media, and advocacy skills, from experts in these fields, in a highly interactive and practical format.
• Graduates will receive a certificate at the end of the course, and will be offered coaching to help them develop their public profile and introductions to our large network of human rights advocates. 
• The ASRC will provide other ongoing support to graduates to help them mobilise and unite communities to create lasting social and policy change for refugees and people seeking asylum

• The 2025 program is open to members of culturally and linguistically diverse communities who have lived experience as refugees or of seeking asylum.
• Women and young people over the age of 18 are strongly encouraged to apply. 

Participants must be available to take part in all six days of the program. We are looking for people who are passionate about exercising leadership in the movement for lasting social and policy change for refugees and people seeking asylum in Australia.