Stories - March 16, 2026
Everyone Belongs: Intereach celebrates Harmony Week
‘Everyone Belongs’ is not just the message for Harmony Week — it’s what Intereach strives to achieve every day through its work in communities.
Through programs like Settlement Engagement and Transition Support (SETS), Intereach is helping create stronger, more inclusive communities where migrants and refugees feel welcome and supported as they build new lives.
Multicultural worker Sammi Fox is part of the SETS team supporting people as they settle and become socially connected in the communities they now call home.
“When people feel supported and that they belong, they’re more confident and able to contribute to their community,” Sammi (left) said.
During Harmony Week from March 16, the SETS team will take part in events across the region celebrating cultural diversity.
Intereach is partnering with Griffith City Council to host a Multicultural Shared Lunch at Griffith Pioneer Park Museum on Tuesday 24 March from 11am to 2pm.
The event will celebrate women across cultures while also recognising International Women’s Day and the end of Ramadan. It will feature guest speakers, cultural entertainment and a communal lunch, with attendees invited to bring a plate of food to share.
SETS workers will also lead activities at Corowa High School and attend community events in Mildura, Tongala, Cootamundra, Swan Hill and Griffith.
SETS program manager Cass Hunt said multiculturalism enriches communities socially, culturally and economically.
“People from different cultural backgrounds bring their skills, traditions, experiences and ideas, creating communities that are stronger, more connected and vibrant for everyone,” she said.
Since 2000, more than 3 million people have migrated to Australia, making it one of the most multicultural nations in the world, with more than half of Australians either born overseas or with at least one parent born overseas.
Since launching the SETS program, Intereach has supported more than 2000 migrants and refugees across the NSW–Victoria border region.
One of those is Syrian refugee Alnajjar, who settled in Swan Hill after fleeing war in her home country.
“When I arrived, I could barely speak English and now I feel happy and confident to speak,” she said.
“I’m so happy to be here and want to give back and be part of this wonderful community.”
Left: Syrian refugee Alnajjar (click here to read her story) with Sammi.
Beyond practical support with housing, employment, education and health services, the program also runs social groups, youth activities and community events that help people build friendships and feel connected in their new home.
For more information about SETS, click here.
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