Women’s Empowerment
Who may be able to access the service?
Women seeking asylum face multiple barriers and challenges. The Women’s Empowerment Program (WEP) aims to provide a safe and supportive space for women seeking asylum to connect with and learn from each other, form friendships and support networks, develop their skills and confidence, and feel a sense of belonging.
Who is able to access this service? | Who will NOT be able to access this service* |
|---|---|
| Women seeking asylum on BVs and people seeking asylum who identify as women, as well as women on TPV and SHEV | Not seeking asylum or refugee |
| Eligible visa holders with any level of English can be referred to the WEP for engagement and group based activities | This service is only open to women and those who identify as women, who hold an eligible visa |
| 18 years or older | Less than 18 years of age |
| Residing in Victoria | Not residing in Victoria |
* If this is you, you may be able to access other services listed here.
What does this service offer?
We support women seeking asylum to build skills and knowledge for social connections and networking, increase their capacity for social and economic participation, as well as their agency and confidence for self-determination through a range of group-based events and activities, face-to-face and online training workshops and information sessions.
We can also provide information and referral over the phone, including referrals to other services which also support women seeking asylum.
How to access the service?
Please call 03 9274 9826 or come to our Centre and our team can discuss your circumstances and the choices available to you.
Opening hours
Service hours may vary depending on staff capacity but these are the days and times we are open (excluding public holidays). Please note, the service is paused during lunch times on the open days.
ASRC Footscray
Level 2, 214-218 Nicholson St. Footscray
Monday: 11.00am to 3.30pm
Tuesday: 11.00am to 3.30pm
Wednesday: Closed
Thursday: 11.00am to 3.30pm
Friday: 11.00am to 3.30pm
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed
What you need to provide:
- Signed consent form including agreeing to ASRC’s Rights and Responsibilities agreement (completed with a worker at the ASRC)
Visa document and, where needed, consent to access your visa status
What we use this for:
- Consent to access services in line with ASRC’s relevant policies and procedures
- Confirm Visa status and right to work and study
What other services could I try?
Services: Sisterworks supports women who are seeking asylum, refugees or migrants to improve their confidence, well-being, sense of belonging and economic outlook through work and entrepreneurship.
Web: https://sisterworks.org.au/contact/
Services: Based in Dandenong, Wellsprings for Women offers a range of resources, courses and support services for women from migrant, refugee and asylum seeking backgrounds. They also provide tailored support for women experiencing family violence.
Web: administation@wellspringsforwomen.com
Services: Stepping Stones is a program tailored for women from refugee, migrant and asylum seeking backgrounds. It provides opportunities for women to achieve financial wellbeing through starting a business, finding employment, training pathways, mentoring and support.
Web: https://www.bsl.org.au/services/consulting-and-training/stepping-stones
Services: The Financial Empowerment & Resilience Network (FERN) is for anyone who would like to build their financial skills, knowledge and confidence.
Web: https://www.bsl.org.au/services/saving-and-managing-money/fern/
Services: Find your nearest Jobs Victoria Employment Service by clicking on the links below:
Web: https://jobs.vic.gov.au/help-for-jobseekers/find-support-in-your-local-area
Web: https://jobs.vic.gov.au/help-for-jobseekers/personalised-support/advocates
You can also call the Jobs Victoria Hotline on 1300 208 575, 9am-5pm Monday to Friday.
Connect with us
Need help from the ASRC? Call 03 9326 6066 or visit us: Mon-Tue-Thur-Fri 10am -5pm. Closed on Wednesdays.