Friends of Refugees (FOR) was formed in early 2013, emerging as a practical response to address the diverse and changing needs of asylum seekers and refugees in Victoria. FOR operates primarily in the Cities of Greater Dandenong and Casey, where over 40% of the asylum seekers on bridging visas live. Asylum seekers are one of the most vulnerable and disadvantaged groups in Australia. Asylum seekers in Australia have no guaranteed right to income, healthcare or settlement services and live on 89% of NewStart allowance.

FOR grew from initially providing material aid to new arrivals and quickly adapted to meet additional and emerging needs. FOR supports asylum seekers and refugees in our local community by providing quality donated items, support services and employment opportunities through our Social Enterprises. All our programs are provided without any federal government funding and at no cost, to the participants – adults and children, who are refugees and asylum seekers.

FOR supports asylum seekers and refugees both in detention and in the community.